World Continence Week 2026

Today marks the start of World Continence Week 2026, running from 15 to 21 June. For the millions of people affected by bladder cancer, this week is a powerful reminder that urinary symptoms are not something to simply endure in silence.

Urinary incontinence is one of the most commonly reported side-effects of bladder cancer treatment, yet it remains one of the least discussed. Troublesome urinary symptoms, including burning and irritation when peeing, accidental leakage, a persistent sense of urgency, and frequent urination, can significantly affect quality of life for patients, survivors and carers. Because these symptoms often overlap with those seen in the ageing population more broadly, they are too frequently dismissed or overlooked. We believe every change in urinary habit deserves proper attention from a healthcare professional. Our factsheet on recognising the symptoms of bladder cancer can help you understand what to look out for and when to seek help.

This year’s initiative brings particular attention to the intersection of incontinence and broader health conditions, including themes such as male incontinence, mental health and incontinence, and comorbidities such as diabetes, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. These are experiences that resonate deeply within our bladder cancer community, where the physical and emotional burden of continence challenges can be compounding and isolating. If you or someone you care for has recently received a diagnosis, our factsheet on understanding diagnosis and prognosis offers clear guidance on next steps and questions to raise with your healthcare team.

World Continence Week is an annual initiative devised and managed by the World Federation of Incontinence and Pelvic Problems (WFIPP), with the endorsement and support of the International Continence Society (ICS), the European Association of Urology (EAU), and the Ibero-American Society of Neurourology and Urogynaecology (SINUG). Together, these organisations are calling on healthcare professionals, patient groups, and individuals around the world to use the week to raise awareness, share experiences, and reduce the stigma that prevents so many people from seeking help.

Bladder cancer and incontinence do not affect only one group of people. One in four people diagnosed with bladder cancer is a woman, and symptoms are often misattributed or delayed. Our factsheet on bladder cancer in women: unique challenges explores these specific experiences and supports women in navigating care with greater confidence.

Bladder weakness alone affects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men and is more common than hay fever. Despite this, shame and stigma still prevent many people from raising the issue with their doctor. We stand with WFIPP in calling for that to change. Our full range of bladder cancer factsheets is available in 31 languages and can be downloaded, printed, and shared freely.

We encourage everyone in our community to join the conversation this week using #WCW2026, #continencematters, and #supportincontinence. Download the World Continence Week 2026 toolkit to access posters and resources, and share your events, stories, and campaigns with us.

If you are experiencing urinary symptoms following bladder cancer treatment, you are not alone. Speak to your healthcare team, and know that support is available.