BCAN: Empowering Better Todays & More Tomorrows

We advocate for better todays and more tomorrows for everyone impacted by bladder cancer by focusing on four critical areas: education, support, research, and policy.

Understanding Bladder Cancer

What is bladder cancer?

Bladder cancer most often begins in the urothelial cells that line the inside of your bladder. Cancer occurs when cells in the bladder start to grow out of control. Most tumors develop on the inner layer of the bladder. Some can grow into deeper bladder layers. As cancer grows through these layers into the muscle wall, it becomes harder to treat.

Newly Diagnosed? Start Here!

Signs & Symptoms

Learn the signs and symptoms of bladder cancer!

Blood in urine (hematuria)
Painful urination
Urgent need to urinate
Frequent urination
Feeling the need (but unable) to pass urine

Learn More About Bladder Cancer

Get Involved

Why Bladder Cancer Support Matters

An estimated 84,870 people will be diagnosed with bladder cancer in the U.S. in 2025.
About 9 out of 10 people with this cancer are over the age of 55.
Bladder cancer is the 3rd most common cancer in men.
1 out of 4 bladder cancer patients are women—and they have worse outcomes at every stage of the disease than men.

Get Involved with BCAN

Download Bladder Cancer Basics Handbook

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About Us

A Community For People Impacted By Bladder Cancer

Have you been impacted by bladder cancer? We’re here to help. The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) provides patients with the critical information and community support they need to thrive today – and champions innovative research and responsive national policy to inspire hope for tomorrow.

Learn More About BCAN

Stories

Read Stories of Hope

Sometimes it helps just to know someone else understands your journey. Read stories of hope from bladder cancer patients and caregivers.

Bonnie’s Story

As a caregiver to her husband Larry, their journey took an unexpected turn in 2021 when what they thought was a routine prostate issue turned out to be bladder cancer. Despite initial misdiagnoses, a cystoscopy revealed the presence of a tumor.

Liliana’s Story

While training for a marathon, Liliana Martin first noticed blood in her urine. Despite initial tests showing minimal blood, doctors dismissed it as a side effect of running or a kidney stone. A year later, the blood reappeared more intensely while training for a different marathon.

Shannon’s Story

At just 35 years old, Shannon received a bladder cancer diagnosis. She opens up about her experience managing this illness while continuing to work, highlighting its effects on her career, mental well-being, and physical health.

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Support BCAN’s Mission Today!

We rely on the generosity of our supporters and the strength of our networks to keep BCAN’s movement alive! Help us provide support, tools, resources, and more when you make a tax-deductible donation!

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