Diet and risk of bladder cancer: a systematic review of epidemiological evidence.
Keiichiro Miyajima, Marcin Miszczyk, Navid Roessler et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review synthesised prospective cohort evidence on dietary exposures and urothelial cancer incidence. It included 32 cohorts with 2 277 677 participants; only one study specifically examined upper tract urothelial carcinoma. Findings were inconsistent: two studies suggested a borderline inverse association between high fluid intake and bladder cancer risk, while two found no association. Three of four coffee studies found no significant association after adjustment for smoking, and fruit and vegetable intake showed modest inverse associations in three studies. Overall, the evidence did not support a strong or consistent relationship between diet and bladder cancer incidence.
Key findings
- The review included 32 prospective cohort studies encompassing 2 277 677 participants.
- Two studies suggested a borderline inverse association between high fluid intake and bladder cancer risk; two others found no association.
- Three of four coffee studies reported no significant association after adjustment for smoking; one reported a modest increased risk.
- Fruit and vegetable intake showed modest inverse associations with bladder cancer risk in three studies.
Why it matters
Dietary factors are often considered potential contributors to bladder cancer risk, but this synthesis finds no strong or consistent association across prospective studies. The results help frame risk discussions: dietary choices may support general well-being, but the available evidence does not indicate that diet alone substantially determines bladder cancer incidence.
What to keep in mind
Most included studies were at moderate risk of bias, and residual confounding, particularly by smoking, remains a concern. Only one study specifically assessed upper tract urothelial carcinoma.