Menendez, Isakson Resolution Recognizing May 2018 as Bladder Cancer Awareness Month Passes Unanimously

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Senate passed a bipartisan resolution that recognizes May 2018 as National Bladder Cancer Awareness Month.  The resolution, which was introduced by U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) aims to raise awareness of bladder cancer, which is the fourth-most common cancer among men in the United States.

“Raising awareness of bladder cancer is critical to addressing this disease, as too often the symptoms go unnoticed until the cancer is more difficult to treat,” said Senator Menendez.  “This month, I encourage all Americans, particularly men, to learn more about its signs and symptoms and to talk to their doctor about ways to reduce risk.”

“As with so many forms of cancer, early detection is key to fighting bladder cancer,” said Senator Isakson. “This type of cancer is too often forgotten, yet it is among the most common forms of this disease. I’m glad to work to raise awareness to help save more lives.”

“This Congressional action will help increase public awareness for bladder cancer as we continue to research better treatments and a cure,” said Andrea Maddox-Smith, CEO, the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network.  “We thank the Senators for their commitment to raising public awareness and finding a cure for bladder cancer and we will work closely with them, and all the Members of the House and Senate, to achieve this goal.

Bladder cancer is treatable if diagnosed early, and many symptoms are easy to recognize.  However, many people who are unaware of these symptoms are at risk of prolonging their diagnosis, making successful treatment less likely.  The American Cancer Society estimates that about 81,190 Americans will be diagnosed with new cases of bladder cancer in 2018, with an estimated 62,380 of those cases being in men and 18,810 in women.  They also estimate that 17,240 Americans will die from bladder cancer in 2018, including about 12,520 men and 4,720 women.  Nine out of ten cases of bladder cancer occur in people age 55 and over, with the average age at diagnosis being 73.