Bladder Cancer: Genetic and Epidemiological Factors Involved in its Genesis

The present paper reviews the genetic and epidemiological factors in the risk of bladder cancer in humans. Tobacco smoking accounts for about 50% of bladder cancer cases in Western Countries. Occupational exposures are second in importance to bladder cancer development. Exposure to aromatic amines in dye stuff manufacturers, in rubber and textile industry, exposure to paints and leather dust, inks, some metals and diesel exhausts in association with dietary factors, specifically, coffee drinking, alcohol consumption, vegetable, fruits, meat and vitamins, parasites and drugs have been identified as risk factors for bladder cancer. The molecular studies have revealed mutations in a number of genes in the tumor cells which might be responsible for the genesis of this cancer.