Bladder cancer, the sixth most common cancer in the U.S.,1 is known as a "below-the-belt" disease. Though bladder cancer is common, given the potential impact on bodily functions and intimacy, those living with the disease have a hard time talking about it. We surveyed 1,000 adults in the U.S. to find out why that is; the results of that survey are laid out below.
People don't know much about bladder cancer
Only 1 in 5 people knew that bladder cancer was more common in men than women
67% of people did not know there are identifiable symptoms of bladder cancer
Basic knowledge about bladder cancer is limited in people age 55 or older − this group makes up about
People think common bladder cancer symptoms and their impact on intimate body parts would be embarrassing
62% of people think the most common bladder cancer symptoms – finding blood in their urine and experiencing pain or burning during urination – are embarrassing
54% of men and 35% of women say it would be difficult to discuss blood in the urine with their significant other
People want to protect their partner from scary, uncertain or bad news when it comes to cancer
41% are concerned with burdening their significant other when talking about this topic
38% worry that cancer will impact their ability to live a normal life and this weighs on sharing
Diagnosis and treatment can be tough to face
2 out of 5 people would rather do unpleasant things, such as go to the DMV or have a cavity filled, than have an exam with a urologist
41% of people say they'd avoid seeking bladder cancer treatment because they're afraid there aren't any options
Bladder cancer can take a psychological toll as well as a physical one
62% of people wouldn’t feel as confident after bladder cancer treatment
58% wouldn’t feel as desirable or attractive after treatment
Daily life with bladder cancer can present challenging situations
67% of people think that bladder cancer treatment will create a burden on others
71% of men and 66% of women would worry that bladder cancer treatment could limit their sexual performance
Although bladder cancer can be difficult to discuss, there are now more treatment options available, giving hope to people affected by the disease. That’s why it is so important for people to have honest, frank conversations about the disease as early as possible. To learn more about bladder cancer and for tips on how to talk about bladder cancer with your significant other, doctor and others, visit bcan.org.
KRC Research conducted this research via an online survey of a total of 1,000 men and women over the age of 18. The survey was conducted between April 7 – April 11, 2017.
- American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2017. Atlanta: American Cancer Society; 2017.
- American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Bladder Cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/about/key-statistics.html.