Dietary mineral intake and risk of bladder cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the association between dietary mineral intake and the risk of bladder cancer. Relevant studies on bladder cancer and dietary mineral intake, including sodium, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc, were systematically identified through searches in Scopus and PubMed up to July 2024. Data from 12 studies were pooled using odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) with a random-effects model. The meta-analysis of 12 studies indicated a positive association between higher dietary sodium intake and bladder cancer risk (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.04–2.55), with significant heterogeneity observed. No clear linear or nonlinear dose–response relationship was found for sodium intake. However, no significant associations were found between the intake of other minerals and the risk of bladder cancer. This study suggests that a high intake of sodium is significantly associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer. Further research is needed to explore the potential mechanisms underlying this relationship.