Bladder Cancer: Prevention

Content provided by Healthwise

Prevention

Bladder cancer cannot be prevented, but you may be able to reduce some of your risk factors for developing it.²

• Cigarette smokers are much more likely to develop bladder cancer than nonsmokers. However, after 1 to 4 years of not smoking, the risk of developing bladder cancer decreases by 40%. Do not smoke or use other tobacco products, and avoid exposure to cigarette smoke. For more information, see the topic Quitting Tobacco Use.
• Avoid exposure to industrial chemicals, such as benzene substances and arylamines. Occupational exposure from working with dyes, rubbers, textiles, paints, leathers, and chemicals increases the risk of developing bladder cancer.
• Avoid exposure to arsenic. Have your drinking water tested and drink bottled water if you think that your water is contaminated with arsenic.
• Eat a healthy diet. Experts believe that what you eat and drink may help prevent bladder cancer.
  • Eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. For more information, see the topic Healthy Weight.
  • Avoid dehydration. Increase your fluid intake, particularly water. Water dilutes cancer-causing chemicals.
  • Vitamin A and vitamin C supplements may provide some protection against bladder cancer.

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Reviewed By:	E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine, Philip Belitsky, MD, FRCSC - Urology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC