Financial toxicity, diagnostic delays remain challenges in bladder cancer

Despite advances in bladder cancer treatment, many patients continue to face substantial barriers related to cost, delayed diagnosis, and unequal access to care, according to Meri-Margaret Deoudes, CEO of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN). Discussing findings from BCAN’s recent New Faces of Bladder Cancer survey, Deoudes said the report highlights persistent disparities that may adversely affect outcomes, particularly among women, rural populations, and other underserved groups.¹

Deoudes said one of the most significant ongoing challenges for patients is the financial toxicity associated with bladder cancer care. Although advances in treatment are encouraging, the disease remains costly to manage, creating an added burden for many patients navigating prolonged treatment courses, surveillance, and follow-up care. She noted that this concern emerged clearly in the survey findings.

The report also highlighted delays in diagnosis among certain populations, particularly women. Deoudes explained that women with bladder cancer are often initially treated for multiple urinary tract infections before receiving an accurate diagnosis. According to the survey, women are 3 times more likely to experience delayed diagnosis, which can contribute to more advanced or metastatic disease at presentation. She emphasized the need for greater awareness among both clinicians and patients, as well as efforts to ensure women feel comfortable seeking specialty care and urologic evaluation when symptoms persist.

Additionally, Deoudes pointed to ongoing gaps in outreach to rural and other underrepresented communities. Although BCAN made some progress in including rural perspectives, she acknowledged that the electronic, 45-minute survey format may have limited participation from patients without reliable internet access or the time and resources to complete it. She said that findings from the survey underscore the importance of developing more inclusive strategies to better understand and support underserved populations affected by bladder cancer.

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