Launch of the MEP interest group on continence health: Reflections on a new chapter

On June 4, 2025, the Urge to Act campaign launched the MEP Interest Group on Continence Health at a breakfast meeting hosted by MEP Maria Walsh. The World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition attended the meeting, where Prof Philip Van Kerrebroeck, Vice-Chair of the EAU Policy Office, formally presented the new Interest Group. Patient advocates, medical professionals and policymakers were also present to underscore the urgency of addressing continence health across the EU.

Continence health issues affect an estimated 55 to 60 million people in Europe. Despite this prevalence, the topic remains under-recognised, stigmatised and often excluded from key policy discussions. Without effective intervention, the economic burden of urinary incontinence could reach €86.7 billion by 2030.

Prof Van Kerrebroeck’s Guidance Document for Policymakers outlined steps for prevention, early diagnosis and equitable access to care. By forming a cross-party interest group with representatives from multiple parliamentary committees, EU decision-makers have signalled that continence health must be treated as a priority. 

Voices from the meeting

• Tomasz Michalek (World Federation of Incontinence and Pelvic Problems) shared his experience as a patient, illustrating how thoughtful policies can restore dignity and improve daily life.
• Erik Briers (Europa Uomo EU) highlighted the link between prostate cancer and urinary incontinence, urging MEPs to install sanitary bins in men’s toilets to address a simple but vital need.
• Dianne Gove (Alzheimer Europe) spoke of continence challenges in dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions, emphasising the strain placed on carers.
• Therese Kelly (European Association of Urology Nurses) underscored the role of specialist nurses, drew attention to gender-sensitive care and stressed the importance of a well-trained, responsive workforce.
• The European Institute of Women’s Health called for a dedicated EU women’s health strategy that explicitly includes continence care.

Implications for bladder cancer patients

Bladder cancer often brings continence difficulties during treatment and recovery. Embedding continence care within EU initiatives, such as the Gender Equality Strategy, the European Care Strategy and Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan will help to ensure that prevention, diagnosis and support services are accessible. The Urge to Act campaign’s objectives of raising awareness, instilling urgency and defining policy steps align directly with our advocacy to make sure bladder cancer patients are not overlooked. Collaborating with the Interest Group will allow us to amplify patient voices, promote research into non-invasive diagnostics and bladder-preserving techniques, and improve access to specialist nursing.

WBCPC welcomes the formation of this interest group and stands ready to support its efforts. We remain committed to ensuring that bladder cancer patients receive the continence care and resources they need, so that no one faces these challenges alone. 

To better understand the experiences of those living with bladder cancer, explore our Bladder Cancer Patient & Carer Experience Survey.