EU bladder cancer roundtable: Key priorities for policy, care, and research

On April 15, 2025, we participated in the EU Bladder Cancer Roundtable, organised by the International Centre for Parliamentary Studies and moderated by Prof. Dr. Hendrik Van Poppel, Chairman of the European Association of Urology Policy Office. The event brought together leading voices in bladder cancer care, research, and policy to discuss early diagnosis, gender disparities, research funding, and EU-wide recommendations aimed at improving outcomes for people affected by bladder cancer.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters 

When detected early, bladder cancer is highly treatable. More than 80% of people diagnosed at early stages survive for at least five years. However, too many diagnoses occur at later stages. In our global patient and carer survey, 64% of respondents said they did not know that blood in the urine was a symptom, and many, particularly women, were misdiagnosed at first. 

Addressing Gender Disparities 

Throughout the discussions, gender disparities were repeatedly emphasised. Women are more likely to be misdiagnosed and less likely to receive full information about their treatment options and long-term side effects, especially those related to sexuality and quality of life. 

Dr. Lydia Makaroff, President of the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition, emphasised that women are three times less likely than men to be informed about the potential sexual side effects of treatment. She also stressed that everyone has the right to understand the long-term implications of their care and to play an active role in decisions about their treatment.

Advancing Research, Innovation, and Access 

Despite being one of the most expensive cancers to treat per patient, bladder cancer still receives significantly less research funding than other cancers. The roundtable explored opportunities to change this by investing in: 

• New diagnostic tools such as liquid biopsies and urinary biomarkers 

• Innovative combination therapies 

• More accessible and inclusive clinical trials 

• Better integration of patient-reported outcomes in research and care 

 Only 16% of our survey respondents said they had been informed about clinical trials, and just 8% had participated. Addressing this gap could accelerate progress and offer more hope to patients. 

Turning Policy into Action 

Clear and practical recommendations emerged from the discussion: 

• Recognise bladder cancer as an occupational disease under the EU Carcinogens Directive 

• Launch EU-wide awareness campaigns focused on symptoms like blood in the urine 

• Develop pilot screening programmes for high-risk groups 

• Tackle gender disparities through updated guidelines and education 

• Ensure bladder cancer is part of the European Health Data Space and EU research funding programmes 

As EU institutions set the direction for future healthcare policy and investment, bladder cancer must not be left behind. 

Dr. Makaroff closed the day with a powerful message:

Looking Ahead 

The EU Bladder Cancer Roundtable served as an important reminder that change is possible when we work together. By strengthening awareness, investing in innovation, and closing the gaps in care, we can create a future where everyone affected by bladder cancer has a fairer chance at better outcomes. 

We will continue to advocate for policy change and support the growing community of people affected by bladder cancer. With the right focus and collaboration, progress is within reach.