(NaturalHealth365)  Most people assume bladder cancer is caused by a ‘genetic defect.’  But a comprehensive review published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health reveals that millions of people face significant bladder cancer risk from a toxic source they encounter every single day, including what comes out of their tap and the pools where they swim.

The research exposes how air pollution, chlorinated water, and occupational exposures contribute to urothelial bladder carcinoma (UBC), which accounts for 90% of all bladder cancer cases.

Study reveals surprising contributors to bladder cancer

Researchers conducted an extensive literature review examining risk factors for UBC beyond the well-known idea of a “genetic flaw.”  While genetics may play a role – in some cases – these current findings are much more important to appreciate.

Drinking chlorinated water emerged as a significant risk factor for bladder cancer.  The review confirmed that chlorine reacts with organic matter to form trihalomethanes (THMs), which have been linked to increased cancer rates.  Perhaps even more concerning: swimming in chlorinated pools that produce these same trihalomethanes increases bladder cancer risk specifically.

Air pollution also showed strong associations with UBC.  Both indoor and outdoor pollution generate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and PAHs.  Small particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometers was linked to both bladder and lung cancers.

Occupational exposures affect millions of workers

The review estimated that approximately 20% of all bladder cancers may be linked to occupational exposure to carcinogens,  primarily aromatic amines encountered in industrial settings involving dye, paint, petroleum chemicals, and metal processing.

This means workers in these industries face substantially elevated risk that often goes unrecognized until symptoms appear.

Other factors that increase your risk

The research identified additional contributors to bladder cancer development, including alcohol consumption, processed meat intake, and, surprisingly, higher intakes of selenium from supplements.

In addition, certain chemotherapeutic agents, oral hypoglycemic drugs, and radiation therapy also showed positive associations with UBC.

Natural solutions for reducing your toxic burden

Given the pervasive nature of these exposures, it is critical to take proactive measures to reduce your toxic load.

Water filtration:  Purchase a high quality, water filtration system to remove chlorine and trihalomethanes from drinking water.  Consider shower filters to reduce inhalation and skin absorption during bathing.

Pool alternatives: Reduce time in chlorinated pools or seek alternatives that don’t produce harmful byproducts.

Air quality improvement: Use a high quality, air purification system to purify indoor air and ensure proper ventilation.  Avoid VOC-emitting products, including certain paints, cleaning supplies, and air fresheners.

Antioxidant support: Vitamin C can neutralize chlorine; 1 gram dechlorinates 100 gallons of water.  A diet rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E, selenium from food sources, and glutathione, helps counteract oxidative damage from environmental exposures.

Dietary shifts: Prioritize organic whole foods while minimizing processed meats.  Support liver and kidney function with cruciferous vegetables, cilantro, and adequate hydration with clean water.

Discover how to properly eliminate these toxins from your body

This bladder cancer research highlights just how many toxic exposures accumulate in your system from everyday sources.  But knowing the risks is only half the battle; you need effective strategies to remove what’s already there.

Get the information you need by accessing Jonathan Landsman’s Whole Body Detox Summit, which brings together 27 holistic experts, researchers, doctors, and nutritionists who share proven protocols for safely eliminating toxins.  Discover the best ways to detoxify fluoride and heavy metals, advanced kidney cleansing techniques, how to unclog your detox pathways, and the biggest mistakes to avoid when removing toxins that can actually make things worse.

Bottom line: The above review confirms that chlorinated water, air pollution, and occupational exposures significantly increase bladder cancer risk.  Reducing exposure and supporting your body’s detoxification systems are essential for protection.

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov
Aphapublications.org
Orthomolecular.org