Bladder cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the world. Various factors such as genetics, smoking, and environmental factors can increase the risk of bladder cancer.

However, certain professions can also increase your risk of developing bladder cancer. In this article, we will highlight the top jobs that increase the risk of bladder cancer.

Hairdressers and Barbers

Hairdressers and barbers are at a higher risk of bladder cancer due to their exposure to hair dyes and other chemical products.

These chemicals contain known carcinogens, including aromatic amines, that can accumulate in their bodies over time and cause DNA damage to the bladder lining. Studies have found that hairdressers and barbers are at least 50% more likely to develop bladder cancer than the general population.

Rubber Workers

Rubber manufacturing workers are exposed to a variety of chemicals and carcinogens, which make them more likely to develop bladder cancer. Most of these workers are in the tire, glove, and industrial rubber production fields.

These chemicals include 2-naphthylamine and 4-aminobiphenyl, which are classified as carcinogens, and can damage the bladder lining when inhaled or ingested.

Chemical Plant Workers

Chemical plant workers are highly exposed to various chemicals, including benzene, formaldehyde, and other carcinogens. These chemicals can cause bladder cancer when absorbed by the body either through inhalation or skin contact.

Workers involved in the production or manufacturing of plastics, rubber, and textiles, among others, face a higher risk of bladder cancer due to exposure to these chemicals.

Painters

Painters who work with oil-based paints and other solvents are at an increased risk of developing bladder cancer.

The chemicals found in oil-based paints and solvents may possess carcinogenic properties, which can lead to bladder cancer in painters exposed to them. When these chemicals are inhaled or ingested, they can accumulate in the body and cause DNA damage to the bladder lining.

Construction Workers

Construction workers, especially roofers, are exposed to various carcinogenic substances such as asphalt, tar, and other industrial chemicals.

Exposure to these substances, especially those that contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), can increase the risk of developing bladder cancer. According to a study conducted by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, construction workers are at an increased risk of bladder cancer compared to other occupations.

Electricians

Electricians are exposed to various dangerous chemicals through contact with insulation materials and electrical equipment. These materials contain carcinogens that can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled through inhalation.

Examples of carcinogens that electricians could come into contact with include PCBs and asbestos.

Printing Industry Workers

Printing industry workers are exposed to various chemicals such as benzene, formaldehyde, and other solvents that can lead to bladder cancer. The chemicals are absorbed into the body through inhalation or skin contact.

The ink used in printing contains several carcinogenic substances that can cause bladder cancer when inhaled or ingested.

Farmers

Farmers are exposed to pesticides and other chemicals used in farming, which can increase the risk of bladder cancer. The chemicals in pesticides are absorbed into the body when inhaled or ingested.

Pesticides containing carcinogenic substances such as arsenic, herbicides, and other toxins, are highly dangerous and should be handled with care to reduce the risk of contracting bladder cancer.

Mechanics

Mechanics are exposed to various chemicals used in the maintenance of vehicles, including petrol, diesel, and other fluids.

The chemicals used in automobile and other machinery manufacturing contain carcinogenic substances like benzene that can accumulate in the body and cause damage to the lining of the bladder.

Metal Workers

Metal workers such as welders are exposed to fumes and dust containing carcinogens such as cadmium, chromium, and nickel. These metals can lead to an increased risk of bladder cancer due to the cancer-causing substances they contain.

Inhaling these particles can result in the accumulation of carcinogens in the lungs or bladder over time.

Conclusion

People who work in certain professions may be more susceptible to bladder cancer than others. If you fall into any of the above categories, it is essential to take care when handling and working with dangerous substances.

You should also take preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing and masks to prevent skin and respiratory system exposure. Regular medical checkups can also help detect the early stages of bladder cancer.