EAU26 session explores barriers to discussing urinary symptoms linked to bladder cancer

At the European Association of Urology Congress 2026 (EAU26), we hosted the session “Understanding and overcoming patient barriers to discussing urinary symptoms linked to bladder cancer.” The session explored why some people delay seeking medical advice when experiencing urinary symptoms and what can be done to support earlier diagnosis.

During the session, our Executive Director, Alex Filicevas, presented research examining the behavioural factors that influence whether people seek medical care when experiencing urinary symptoms that could be linked to bladder cancer.

Bladder cancer is the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Europe and the fourth most common among men, yet symptoms such as visible blood in the urine, increased urinary frequency or pain during urination are still often misunderstood or attributed to less serious causes. As a result, some people delay discussing these symptoms with a healthcare professional.

The research presented during the session was based on a survey of 4,067 respondents across the United States, France, Germany and Italy who had experienced urinary symptoms in the previous year. Overall, 65% sought medical care within three months of experiencing symptoms.

The findings highlighted several behavioural factors that influence whether people seek medical advice:

• How people interpret their symptoms strongly influences their decision to seek care
• Symptoms attributed to ageing or lifestyle factors are more likely to delay consultation
• Family members and friends can play an important role in encouraging people to see a doctor
• Access to trusted information sources increases the likelihood of seeking care
• Embarrassment and stigma around urinary symptoms remain important barriers

The presentation was followed by a panel discussion with Lori Funk Cirefice, President of Cancer Vessie France; Emad Siddiqui, Head of Medical Affairs at Astellas; and Prof. Josep Maria Vilaseca Llobet, Honorary Treasurer of WONCA Europe. Together, they reflected on how healthcare professionals, patient organisations and industry can work together to reduce stigma, improve awareness and support earlier diagnosis.

The discussion emphasised the importance of normalising conversations around urinary symptoms, strengthening awareness campaigns and ensuring people have access to reliable information so they feel confident discussing symptoms with their healthcare professionals.

Understanding the behavioural and emotional factors behind delayed care-seeking can help shape more effective awareness efforts and support earlier diagnosis for people affected by bladder cancer.

The research presented during the session is summarised in a poster that provides an overview of the key findings and insights on behavioural factors influencing healthcare-seeking decisions related to bladder cancer symptoms.

Download the poster to learn more about the research.