Learning about bladder cancer
Bladder cancer is the 9th most common cancer in the world. More than 614,000 people every year. Yet for many, it comes as a complete surprise, something they knew very little about until the moment it entered their lives. We understand how overwhelming that moment can be.
This section of our website brings together clear, trustworthy information for people affected by bladder cancer, whether you have been newly diagnosed, are caring for someone with bladder cancer, or are simply looking to learn more. Take your time. You do not have to read everything at once.
What should everyone know about bladder cancer?
Bladder cancer is more common than most people realise. Globally, nearly 1.9 million people are living with bladder cancer right now. It can affect anyone, men and women, younger and older adults alike. One in four patients is a woman. When bladder cancer is caught early, survival rates can reach up to 90%.
The most important thing to know: blood in the urine is the number one warning sign of bladder cancer. It should never be ignored, even if it only happens once, even if it is painless, and even if it disappears on its own.
Where would you like to start?
What is Bladder Cancer?
Understand how bladder cancer develops, the difference between early-stage and advanced disease, what stage and grade mean, and which treatments are available. All explained in plain language.
Symptoms & Risk Factors
Blood in your urine is the number one warning sign. Learn which symptoms to take seriously, which risk factors to be aware of, and practical steps you can take to protect your health.
Newly diagnosed
A diagnosis can feel overwhelming. This section helps you understand what comes next, how to talk to your doctor, questions to ask at appointments, and where to find practical and emotional support.
Women and Bladder Cancer
One in four bladder cancer patients is a woman, yet women are twice as likely to be misdiagnosed. Learn about the unique challenges women face and how to navigate the care system.
Bladder Cancer Factsheets
Download our free, plain-language factsheets on symptoms, risk factors, TURBT, treatment, diagnosis and more: available in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and several other languages.
Looking for support?
If you have questions or need to find a patient organisation in your country, write to us at patients@worldbladdercancer.org. We are here to connect you with the information and support that you need.
Bladder Cancer Factsheets
Our bladder cancer factsheets provide clear, accessible information for patients, carers, and the public.
Read more
Women and bladder cancer
One in four bladder cancer patients are women, yet their stories often go unheard.
Read more
What is Bladder Cancer?
An outline of the facts about bladder cancer.
Read more
Newly diagnosed with bladder cancer
An outline of the basic facts about bladder cancer.
Read more
Symptoms & risk factors
Understanding the symptoms to look out for and the risk factors to reduce exposure to is essential.
Read more
Patient Support
Are you looking for further information or support? As a first step, you should always check with your medical team. However, sometimes you may wish to learn more about bladder cancer, or speak to someone who has been through this before. We’re here to help guide you in the right direction – and ensure that your information and support needs are met.
Are you a patient from Ukraine and are looking for additional information? We have created a page and compiled a list of resources and organisations that people affected by bladder cancer can use. Click here for more information.
Women and bladder cancer
Bladder cancer patient stories
Support community
Toolkits & Resources
We strive to develop a range of resources available for patients and caregivers to help understand bladder cancer and the care pathway. These have been developed by us in collaboration with our members and partners.
Download resources
Are you looking for downloadable resources with bladder cancer information for patients? Recognising the symptoms of bladder cancer Understanding the Risk Factors of Bladder Cancer How to raise funds for your patient group View all ResourcesGet Involved
We are always looking to partner and connect with like-minded organisations. Whether you’re looking to become a member, start a patient group in your country, or donate your time and experience to support our work - there are a number of different ways you can get involved.
Member of
For general information, information about membership or policy information, please contact the WBCPC Secretariat at info@worldbladdercancer.org
Member of
For general information, information about membership or policy information, please contact the WBCPC Secretariat at info@worldbladdercancer.org