Taking steps forward for joint policy action – EUrology Session on Bladder Cancer

The EUrology Session on Bladder Cancer brought together policymakers, clinicians, researchers, and patient advocates to discuss pressing issues in bladder cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. The session highlighted the urgent need for stronger policy action, investment in research and innovation, and a greater focus on patient-centred care.

It was an opportunity to launch the Tackling Bladder Cancer in Europe Summary Booklet which is available to download below. Based on the White Paper on Bladder cancer published in 2023 together with the European Association of Urology, the booklet summarises key challenges in bladder cancer, top policy recommendations and key steps Members of the European Parliament can take to support bladder cancer patient community through policy.

Bladder cancer remains one of the most underrepresented cancers in public health discussions, despite bladder cancer being the 5^th most common cancer in the European Union, with its high recurrence rates and significant impact on quality of life. Prevention and early detection were central themes, with experts underscoring the importance of tobacco control and the potential of urinary biomarkers to improve diagnosis and monitoring. Discussions also addressed treatment challenges, including limited therapeutic options, patient access to innovative treatments, and the burden of long-term care.

Two members of our community provided powerful testimonies on the realities of living with bladder cancer, shedding light on the physical, emotional, and financial challenges patients face. Piet Klein from Patiëntenvereniging blaas- of nierkanker – Patient Association for Bladder or Kidney Cancer (NL) and Melanie Costin from Fight Bladder Cancer (UK) shared their lived experiences which reinforced the need for greater awareness, timely and accurate diagnosis, and improved support mechanisms for people living with and beyond bladder cancer.

The session also explored policy pathways to accelerate research and access to new therapies. While progress is being made, experts called for stronger EU-wide action to prioritise bladder cancer in health policy agendas, ensuring patients benefit from advancements in treatment and care across the continent.

The World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition will continue to drive this conversation forward, working with partners across Europe to push for greater recognition of bladder cancer, stronger policy commitments, and improved outcomes for patients and their families in the Member States.

Download the Tackling Bladder Cancer in Europe Summary Booklet below.

We will share a summary of the key takeaways from the discussions in the coming weeks. Stay connected for further updates and our upcoming report.