Genetic Susceptibility to Bladder Cancer

• To determine in both cohorts, the frequencies of polymorphisms in those genes that regulate the metabolism of carcinogens in tobacco smoke. [ Time Frame: After the last subject completes the study ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]
• To explore the associations between the cytogenetic, molecular components and epidemiologic covariates (age, sex, ethnicity, cigarette smoking status, alcohol use, dietary intake, and family history of cancer) in risk of bladder cancer. [ Time Frame: After the last subject has completed the study ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]

Bladder cancer (BC) is a model disease system for evaluating the relationship of tobacco, dietary, and occupational exposures (which are responsible for up to 90% of BCs) and host-specific susceptibility factors. The induction of BC by arylamines (from tobacco or occupational exposure) is one of the best understood types of carcinogenesis. There is also substantial evidence suggesting that an individual's genetic make-up influences susceptibility to cancer.

This clinical research study will identify biologic and lifestyle factors which increase a person's risk of developing specific cancer. We propose to conduct a case-control study examining interindividual differences in susceptibility to tobacco carcinogenesis as predictors of bladder cancer risk. We will measure susceptibility to tobacco carcinogenesis and this will include studies of the genetic modulation of carcinogen activation and detoxification and of chromosome sensitivity to tobacco mutagens.

Any patient who have been diagnosed with bladder cancer or who is healthy is eligible to participate without regard to age, sex, or ethnicity.

• Bladder Cancer
• Healthy

• 1
  Patients with bladder cancer.
  Intervention: Other: Specimens, personal and follow-up telephone interviews
• 2
  Healthy patients
  Intervention: Other: Specimens, personal and follow-up telephone interviews

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subject has a histologically confirmed diagnosis of superficial or muscle-invasive bladder cancer
• Subject is a Texas resident.
• Subject can understand English or a qualified translator is available for the interview.
• Subjects of any age, gender, or ethnicity are eligible to participate in the study.
• Subject consents to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Subject has had prior treatment with systemic chemotherapy or radiotherapy in the past 6 months.
• Subject has been diagnosed with superficial or muscle-invasive bladder cancer more than twelve months ago.