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Earlier last year, we updated our Start-Up Guide for bladder cancer patient groups to reflect evolving needs, new insights, and lessons learned from patient advocates worldwide. Now, we have taken the next step by updating the translated versions of the Start-Up Guide, ensuring that more patient advocates can access these resources in their own language.
Setting up a bladder cancer patient group is a journey with many steps. Knowing where to start can be overwhelming,
The World Bladder Cancer Patient Forum 2025 took place on October 13–14 in Brussels, bringing together patient advocates, clinicians, researchers, policymakers and partners dedicated to improving outcomes for people affected by bladder cancer.
We are pleased to look back and share the moments that shaped this year’s Forum. From thoughtful discussions and practical sessions to personal stories and expert insights, the highlights reflect the value of working together towards better care, stronger advocacy,
The World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition is thrilled to announce the appointment of Lori Funk-Cirefice as its new President, and the election of Alessandro Boni from Italy and Fiorella Gagliardi from Argentina as new members of the Board of Directors, all serving a term from 2025 to 2028.
Lori Funk-Cirefice, based in France, has been involved with the Coalition since its founding in 2019. She is the President of Cancer Vessie France,
Today, we mark the end of an important chapter as Dr Lydia Makaroff steps down after four years of dedicated service as President. She was elected to the role in 2021, succeeding the Founding President Ken Bagshaw, and has played a key role in strengthening the Coalition and helping it grow internationally.
Lydia has been part of the Coalition since it was founded in 2019. Before her appointment as President, she served as Vice-President and Treasurer.
Bladder cancer is the 9th most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, affecting over 610,000 people each year. Today, 1.9 million people are living with the condition, each carrying their own unique journey and story.
The World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition (WBCPC) is committed to raising awareness about bladder cancer symptoms and encouraging people to seek medical advice early. When caught in its early stages, the 5-year survival rate for bladder cancer can be as high as 90%.
The World Bladder Cancer Patient Forum 2024 Summary Report is now available for download. This report provides a concise reflection on the presentations, discussions, and ideas shared at this year’s event. If you missed the Forum or would like to revisit key conversations, you can access the full report below.
The 4th annual World Bladder Cancer Patient Forum took place in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and for the first time, it expanded to a two-day programme.
Bladder cancer patients in Italy are now benefiting from an innovative resource that helps them make informed decisions about their care. Developed by Associazione PaLiNUro, Uro H Advisor is a pioneering platform inspired by TripAdvisor, designed to guide patients in choosing the most suitable hospitals for their treatment.
Since its launch three years ago, Uro H Advisor has empowered patients by providing practical insights into hospitals with expertise in bladder cancer treatment.
Starting a bladder cancer support group can feel overwhelming, but with the right resources and a clear vision, it’s possible to create lasting change. One such success story comes from Spain, where CANVES (Alianza por el cáncer de vejiga en España) became the country’s first bladder cancer support group.
Laurent Gemenick, Co-Founder of CANVES, reflects on the journey:
The World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition’s Start-Up Guide played an important role in this journey,
Setting up a bladder cancer patient group is a journey with many steps. Knowing where to start can be overwhelming, but this updated guide is here to help. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your group, our guide offers comprehensive advice, tools, and shared experiences from established organizations worldwide.
Here’s what’s new in this version:
Join a global coalition making a difference for people affected by bladder cancer worldwide. This internship is a full-time remunerated position with flexible working arrangement on a full-time basis with at least one working day in the office, understanding that office time and external meetings in Brussels may be required more often during certain periods.
The organisation is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.
Who are we?
As a rapidly growing coalition spanning 16 organisations across 14 countries globally,
For general information, information about membership or policy information, please contact the WBCPC Secretariat at info@worldbladdercancer.org
For general information, information about membership or policy information, please contact the WBCPC Secretariat at info@worldbladdercancer.org
