Did you know that smoking is closely linked with many urological cancers? Read on to find out how smoking links to urological cancers such as bladder, testicular, kidney and prostate cancer.
As most are well aware, smoking cigarettes can cause chronic health conditions such as cancer, with lung cancer often standing out as the most well known.
Smoking and urological wellbeing
The toxic chemicals in cigarettes can and most certainly will harm almost every organ in the body, including the urinary system and reproductive organs. So while quitting smoking is very important for your overall health, it is also significant for your urological wellbeing, particularly for preventing urological cancers. Let’s take a look at some of the urological cancers that can be caused by smoking.
Bladder Cancer
Smokers have triple the risk of developing bladder cancer compared to nonsmokers. Furthermore, about 50% of bladder cancer in men and 20% in women can be attributable to smoking. When cigarette smoke is inhaled, around 60 different carcinogens are taken into the body, many of which have been observed in the urine of smokers. However, when a chronic smoker quits, the risk of bladder cancer drops dramatically and continues to fall for up to 25 years.
Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer develops in the testicle, caused by the abnormal growth of cells. This cancer can occur in one or both testicles. Men under the age of 45 are more likely to develop the disease. Studies show a close link between smoking cigarettes and testicular cancer. One recent study directly links smoking marijuana with testicular cancer.
Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer develops when abnormal cells in the kidney start to mutate and grow uncontrollably and more rapidly than normal cells. The most prevalent risks for developing kidney cancer are lifestyle-related, with smoking being a significant factor, particularly prolonged smoking.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is typically a very slow-growing disease and will not present any symptoms until it is at an advanced stage. And while the exact cause of prostate cancer is elusive, exposure to toxins such as those in cigarette smoke is a crucial factor. Studies have shown that smoking contributes to inflammation of the prostate, increasing the risk of developing cancer.
Other urological conditions
While smoking causes urological cancer, it can cause several other harmful conditions. These include:
- kidney stones
- erectile dysfunction
- incontinence
- infertility
- interstitial cystitis
Our advice
Smoking has been connected to several urological issues and, in particular, can have a devastating impact on your health and wellbeing. We will always say that quitting smoking is always the healthiest option. You can use many resources to get started, including the NSW iCanQuit community.
Book an appointment with Urology Specialist
It is important to talk to a trusted professional regarding your health. If you have any questions about kidney health or would like to book an appointment, please feel free to contact or call Dr Arianayagam’s office on 1300 307 990, and his staff will be able to assist.
While you’re here, learn more about how we can help you:
Overactive Bladder And 5 Treatment Options
Detecting Testicular Cancer Early
Prostate Screenings And What You Need To Know
Urology Specialist
Dr. Mohan Arianayagam
(ABN) 12 345 678 910
Contact Us
Ph: 1300 307 990
Fax: 02 8078 6092
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Mailing Address:
Suite 414, 29-31 Lexington Drive, Bella Vista NSW 2159
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