Background: Bladder cancer remains the ninth most common cancer worldwide. Many of the risk factors associated with bladder cancer are acquired and are therefore modifiable. This study aimed to systematically review the literature to identify the main acquired risk factors associated with the development of bladder cancer.

Methods: We performed a meticulous, systematic literature review for relevant studies using two electronic databases PubMed and Medline. Studies deemed eligible examined bladder cancer risk factors and were published in the English language.

Results: One hundred and twenty-five full-text articles were included in the review. The majority were case–control studies and cohort studies, with some systematic reviews and meta-analyses included. The acquired risk factors which were most commonly identified include smoking, occupational exposures, dietary factors and medical conditions.

Conclusion: Bladder cancer remains a disease with a significant global burden, much of which can be attributable to modifiable and acquired risk factors. A key factor in the primary prevention of bladder cancer is the identification and modification of these risk factors by both physicians and patients.