Bethesda, MD, April 24, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On May 1, 2019, the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) begins its annual Bladder Cancer Awareness Month activities and Walks to End Bladder Cancer in 25 cities throughout the U.S. Bladder cancer affects people of all ages and races and is the sixth most common cancer in the U.S., yet it is one of the least known and understood types of cancer.
“Better education and awareness of bladder cancer saves lives. During Bladder Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage bladder cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and doctors to share their stories and participate in BCAN Walks to End Bladder Cancer,” said Andrea Maddox-Smith, CEO of BCAN. “Throughout May, we are proud to raise awareness of this disease.”
While BCAN is a national organization, its fundraising Walks to End Bladder Cancer involve more than 3,000 hardworking local volunteers and participants in 25 cities throughout the U.S. The Walks have raised more than $3.7 million toward bladder cancer education, awareness and research. Visit www.BCANWalk.org to donate or participate in a city near you.
During May and throughout the year, BCAN encourages Americans to learn and share information about bladder cancer while also encouraging government officials to take action to strengthen research and support for bladder cancer patients, caregivers and survivors.
Heightened awareness of bladder cancer symptoms is critical to early detection. These include blood in the urine, painful urination, urgency, frequency, or feeling the need but no ability to pass urine. Symptoms may also include abdominal pain, fatigue, and lower back pain. These signs and symptoms can also be linked to other illnesses, and it is important to seek care from a healthcare provider immediately if any of these signs or symptoms are present.
BCAN also shares stories of bladder cancer survivors, patients, and their loved ones. Read about their courageous journeys in the My Bladder Cancer Story campaign at www.BCAN.org/my-bladder-cancer-stories.
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The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network’s (BCAN) mission is to increase public awareness about bladder cancer, advance bladder cancer research and, provide educational and support services for the bladder cancer community.