6 Groups of People Most at Risk of Bladder Cancer After Actos Use

When a person is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, his or her physician may recommend taking certain medications to try and manage the condition. One such medication is Actos. Unfortunately, the use of this drug has since been linked to an increased risk of developing bladder cancer. Certain groups of people may be at higher risk for developing this dangerous condition.

Actos Users Who May Be at Risk of Bladder Cancer

Which groups of Actos users should be most concerned about the risk of developing bladder cancer? The following is an overview:

1. Men. Studies have shown that bladder cancer linked to Actos use occurs more frequently in men than it does in women. Similarly, men have a higher risk than women of developing this type of cancer in the general population as a whole.
2. People who are over age 65. The median age for Actos users who later developed bladder cancer was 70 years old.
3. People who smoke. Studies have already linked smoking to a higher likelihood of developing bladder cancer. This holds true for Actos users as well. There are various carcinogens contained in cigarettes that make it more likely to develop bladder cancer than a non-smoker.
4. People who are obese. Obesity is another trait that has long been linked to bladder cancer. A person is considered obese if he or she has a body mass index greater than 30 percent.
5. People with high glycated hemoglobin levels. According to the American Diabetes Association, people with type 2 diabetes should aim to keep their long-term blood sugar level at or below seven percent. When the level is higher, Actos users may be more likely to develop bladder cancer.
6. People who consume alcohol. Within the general population, there is a slight increase in the likelihood of developing bladder cancer among people who drink excessively. This holds true for Actos users as well.

Sadly, for those who have already been diagnosed with this potentially deadly cancer, many patients and doctors were not aware of the possible link between the medication and the disease when deciding to use the drug. Many of these individuals are now filing lawsuits as a result. If you took Actos and later developed bladder cancer, you may be entitled to pursue a claim for compensation. We encourage you to contact us today for a consultation at 888-526-7616.