Meri-Margaret Deoudes on patient engagement in bladder cancer care

In the following video, Meri-Margaret Deoudes, CEO of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN), discusses how findings from the organization’s New Faces of Bladder Cancer Report reflect meaningful progress in shared decision-making while also highlighting persistent gaps in supportive care. The survey included responses from over 1100 individuals across 49 states in the US and Puerto Rico.¹

Findings from the BCAN survey point to a notable shift in the bladder cancer treatment landscape, with an expanding array of therapeutic options translating into more robust shared decision-making between patients and clinicians. Patients are increasingly reporting that treatment goals and options are discussed, reflecting both the availability of novel therapies and a cultural shift toward patient-centered care. Compared with individuals diagnosed more than a decade ago, recently diagnosed patients are less likely to report that treatment goals were not addressed (34% vs 42%). Deoudes emphasized that patients value these discussions and want to be actively involved in decisions that influence not only survival outcomes but also their quality of life.

However, Deoudes noted that opportunities remain for urologists to deepen these conversations by taking a more holistic view of each patient’s life and priorities. Beyond outlining treatment pathways, clinicians are encouraged to better understand what matters most to patients—such as daily activities, personal goals, and overall well-being—so that care plans align with individual definitions of quality of life. Although time constraints in clinical practice are a recognized challenge, she stressed the importance of intentionally creating space for these discussions. This approach can help ensure that treatment decisions are not solely disease-focused but instead reflect a broader, patient-centered perspective.

The report also highlights a significant and persistent gap in mental health support for patients with bladder cancer. While 91% of patients reported that emotional support is important, more than 40% indicated they were never offered mental health resources, revealing a disconnect between patient needs and care delivery. Deoudes underscored that many patients may feel uncomfortable initiating conversations about mental health, placing greater responsibility on clinicians to proactively normalize these discussions. She suggested that physicians should foster open, early dialogue about emotional well-being, reassuring patients that feelings of anxiety or depression are common and valid. Addressing this gap represents a key opportunity to enhance comprehensive cancer care and better support patients throughout their treatment journey.

REFERENCES

1. New Faces of Bladder Cancer Report. Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network. Accessed April 13, 2026. https://bcan.org/new-faces-of-bladder-cancer-report/