Know your risk for bladder cancer — and don’t ignore the signs
Awareness gaps can impact recognition and diagnosis of bladder cancer
May 4, 2026
When bladder cancer is found early, before it spreads beyond the bladder, patients have more treatment options. That’s why we’re focused on getting to the heart of what people need to hear. Especially those at risk of bladder cancer.
“Too many patients don’t recognize the warning signs for bladder cancer or feel comfortable talking about them. Breaking that silence is just as important as developing new treatments — because awareness is the first step toward helping to save lives.”
- Dr. M. Catherine Pietanza
Vice president, global clinical development, MSD Research Laboratories
Bladder cancer risk is not largely based on family genetics
Some people inherit certain genes from their parents that can increase their risk of bladder cancer. But bladder cancer doesn’t often run in families, and inherited genes are not thought to be a major cause of this disease. Most gene changes linked to bladder cancer develop during a person’s life, rather than having been inherited.
Don’t ignore blood in your urine or changes in your urinary habits — talk to your doctor right away
Bladder cancer can often be found early because it can cause symptoms that lead a person to see a healthcare provider. Blood in your urine is usually the first sign, before pain or other symptoms appear. In most cases, blood in the urine doesn’t mean you have bladder cancer, but it’s important to see your doctor to rule out other causes like a bladder or kidney stone, an infection or kidney disease.
Be aware of your risks for bladder cancer
Knowing and avoiding the risk factors that are within your control may help lower your risk of bladder cancer. Among risk factors for bladder cancer, smoking is highest on the list — causing about half of all bladder cancers. Exposure to other chemicals can also raise risk over time, including industrial chemicals used in making rubber, leather, textiles and paint products, as well as in printing companies. People who work as painters, firefighters, hairdressers and truck drivers can similarly be exposed to certain chemicals and fumes that might increase their risk of bladder cancer.
Some risk factors can’t be controlled, but you may be able to help lower your risk of bladder cancer by not smoking, practicing good work safety practices, limiting exposure to toxins (like arsenic), staying well hydrated and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Know your individual risk factors and talk to your doctor to see if you are at high risk for bladder cancer. If you have risk factors that strongly increase your risk of bladder cancer, and you’ve noticed certain changes in your urine, your doctor may recommend tests to look for bladder cancer.
“Our goal is to reach patients sooner — before the disease advances, before options narrow.”
- Dr. M. Catherine Pietanza
When bladder cancer is found early, there are more treatment options. In later stages of bladder cancer, removing the bladder may need to be part of the treatment plan.
This is where our focus begins: breaking the silence and encouraging people to talk to their doctor right away if they notice any possible symptoms.
