Three genetic loci associated with risk of bladder cancer are identified in a study online this week in Nature Genetics.

There are approximately 350,000 new cases of bladder cancer reported worldwide each year. The greatest risk factor for bladder cancer is smoking, as well as occupational exposure to chemicals known as aromatic amines.

Montserrat Garcia-Closas and colleagues report a genome-wide analysis of approximately 12,000 individuals with bladder cancer. They identify three genetic loci that are associated with risk of bladder cancer. The study also confirmed previously identified genetic susceptibility loci for bladder cancer.