Joining Forces to Support Bladder Cancer Patients

At the World Bladder Cancer Patient Forum 2024, advocates, healthcare professionals, and patients gathered to discuss issues in bladder cancer care. The session, “Joining Forces to Meet Bladder Cancer Patient Support Needs,” highlighted the importance of patient education, collaboration, and addressing gender-specific challenges.

Dr. Martin Angel opened the discussion by emphasising the importance of holistic support for bladder cancer patients. He highlighted how his team collaborates with radiologists, pathologists, and psychologists to manage side effects and support patients during treatment. Education plays a pivotal role in helping patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options, and Dr. Angel noted that involving patients in decisions enhances their confidence and engagement.

Angela Pelletier, a bladder cancer survivor and volunteer to Bladder Cancer Canada, shared her personal journey, from her initial misdiagnosis of a UTI to eventually undergoing a radical cystectomy. Her story underscored the challenges many women face, including the emotional adjustment to living with an ostomy. She emphasised the value of resources from Bladder Cancer Canada, including guidebooks and peer support groups, which provided her with essential information and comfort throughout her journey.

Gender differences in bladder cancer diagnosis were a recurring theme. Dr. Mario Fernandez discussed how symptoms in women, such as frequent UTIs, can lead to delays in diagnosis. This delay often results in more advanced and aggressive treatments. Both he and Angela advocated for increased awareness among healthcare providers and patients to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, especially for women.

In addition to medical support, community resources were recognised as essential. Peer support groups offer a safe space for patients to share their experiences, providing practical advice and emotional encouragement. Melanie Costin from Fight Bladder Cancer highlighted the importance of accessible information, particularly for newly diagnosed patients. She noted how patient-centered booklets and materials can bridge the knowledge gap, empowering patients to make informed decisions.

The session underscored the importance of collaboration in improving bladder cancer care worldwide. Advocates from Canada, the UK, and South Africa highlighted shared challenges and the need to expand resources, especially in multiple languages. This collaborative approach fosters a global community where patients and healthcare providers can exchange insights, ultimately leading to better outcomes for all affected by bladder cancer.

The World Bladder Cancer Patient Forum 2024 once again connected our friends and colleagues. It allowed for the sharing of best practice in our community, exchanging patient experiences and challenges while exploring opportunities for improvement together and fostering our close-knit community of bladder cancer patient advocates.

Watch the “Joining Forces to Meet Bladder Cancer Patient Support Needs” full session on the WBCPC YouTube Channel.