**Workers in Seven Occupations Face Higher Bladder Cancer Risk, Union Investigates Potential Compensation Claims**
A prominent UK trade union has sounded the alarm on the heightened risk of bladder cancer among people employed in seven specific job sectors, launching a targeted register to support potentially affected workers and explore avenues for personal injury claims.
The GMB union, which represents staff across a diverse range of industries, announced the development of its new bladder cancer register at its annual conference in Brighton. The initiative is designed to identify members diagnosed with bladder cancer within the last three years, with the hope of uncovering how many cases can be linked to occupational exposure to dangerous chemicals.
According to data reviewed by the union, 6% of all bladder cancer cases are believed to be driven by prolonged exposure to carcinogenic substances encountered in various workplaces. Citing this research, the GMB aims to both raise awareness and gather important evidence which could form the basis of future compensation claims for affected workers.
The job roles considered at the highest risk are strikingly widespread. The union’s investigation includes healthcare workers, drivers, cleaners, painter-decorators, hairdressers, catering and food preparation staff, as well as those engaged in manufacturing roles. Many of these professions historically encounter substances such as specific dyes, rubber, or metalworking fumes that may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Peter Hall, GMB’s senior officer for health and safety, explained the union’s ongoing efforts at the conference, commenting: “GMB has long been involved in raising awareness about the link between workplace exposures and bladder cancer. We are taking proactive steps to better understand just how widespread the problem is among our members, and what action should follow.”
Bladder cancer is a significant health concern in the UK, with Cancer Research UK reporting approximately 10,500 new cases every year—an average of 29 diagnoses daily. It stands as the seventh most prevalent cancer in men and the seventeenth in women, and causes around 5,600 deaths annually, placing it ninth among leading causes of cancer death.
Early detection remains a crucial factor in improving outcomes and survival rates. Healthcare experts advise being vigilant for warning signs such as blood in urine—which might appear as red, pink, or darker brown, and is usually painless. Other symptoms can include more frequent urination, a sudden urge to urinate, a burning or stinging sensation when passing urine, pelvic or lower back pain, bone aches, swollen legs, or unexplained weight loss.
Timely investigation of these symptoms—through urine tests, ultrasound or CT scans, and cystoscopy—can substantially improve the chances of successful treatment. Early-detected, non-muscle-invasive bladder cancers typically have better cure rates than those that are diagnosed after spreading beyond the bladder lining.
The role of preventable risk factors is profound. Smoking is attributed to approximately 45% of bladder cancer cases in the UK, with occupational exposure to hazardous materials following closely behind. Although workplace risks account for a smaller—but still meaningful—6% of cases, the link is significant for those who spend years in these environments.
The GMB’s new register intends to bring much-needed clarity and support to affected workers, helping them not only seek justice if their health has suffered due to working conditions, but also shedding light on the types of environments that require urgent safety improvements. Calls have been made for employers across all sectors to redouble their efforts in risk assessment and the provision of protective measures for their staff.
It remains to be seen how many claimants may come forward as a result of the register, but the initiative sends a strong message about the ongoing need for accountability and the prioritisation of employee health in all workplaces. The union’s investigation may pave the way for future protections and legal reforms, ensuring that no one is left to suffer in silence due to their working environment.
As this story develops, health campaigners are encouraging anyone who works in these higher-risk job sectors to monitor their health, seek prompt medical advice if concerning symptoms develop, and remain informed about their rights to workplace safety and possible avenues for compensation.