Summary: | <p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>The association between fish consumption and risk of bladder cancer has not been established yet. The results from epidemiological studies are inconsistent.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>We conducted a meta-analysis of cohort and case-control studies on the relationship between fish intake and bladder cancer. We quantified associations with bladder cancer using meta-analysis of relative risk associated to the highest <it>versus </it>the lowest category of fish intake using random effect models. Heterogeneity among studies was examined using Q and I<sup>2 </sup>statistics. Publication bias was assessed using the Begg's funnel plot.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Five cohort and 9 case-control studies were eligible for inclusion. The combined relative risk showed that fish consumption was negatively, but not significantly, associated with a decreased risk of bladder cancer (relative risk, 0.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.61-1.12). In subgroup analyses, there was no evidence that study design, geographical region, case sample size, or exposure assessment substantially influenced the estimate of effects.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>The overall current literature on fish consumption and the risk of bladder cancer suggested no association. Because of the limited number of studies, further well-designed prospective studies are needed to explore the effect of fish on bladder cancer.</p>
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