Bob Schieffer to Bring Greater Public Awareness to Bladder Cancer

BETHESDA, Md., March 20, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- For the third straight year, CBS newsman and bladder cancer survivor Bob Schieffer has agreed to serve as honorary chair for the national Walks for Bladder Cancer Day set for Saturday, May 4, 2013.

The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN), the first national advocacy organization dedicated to advancing bladder cancer research, support and education, announced that Schieffer and other advocates in the Washington DC area will walk in our nation's capital to raise awareness of bladder cancer in addition to needed funds for research and education.   At the same time, thousands of other walkers across the country will also take to the streets of their local communities to bring attention and awareness to this very common, but unspoken of, disease.

In last year's effort, more than 5,000 people participated in 60 walks in 30 states to raise more than $275,000 to help foster research programs, patient education and public awareness.

Schieffer was diagnosed with bladder cancer several years ago after he noticed blood in his urine. Since then, he has repeatedly spoken out about his diagnosis. His openness about his disease has helped other bladder cancer survivors recognize that they are not alone and encouraged them to visit a doctor if they see symptoms.  Schieffer is the Chief Washington Correspondent for CBS News and has anchored Face the Nation since 1991.

Bladder cancer is a significant health concern. It is the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States with more than 70,000 new cases and 15,000 deaths each year.  Still, there is little awareness of this devastating disease. Bladder cancer has a high recurrence rate and, because it requires life-long surveillance, is one of the most expensive cancers to treat on a per patient basis.  The causes of bladder cancer are not fully understood and there have been no major advances in its treatment in the last 20 years.

BCAN was created in May 2005 and is the leading voice for bladder cancer cultivating a community of hope and support for people touched by the disease.  BCAN's mission is to increase public awareness about bladder cancer, advance bladder cancer research, and provide educational and support services for the bladder cancer community.  For more information on how you can take part in a walk for bladder cancer in your community on May 4, 2013, please visit www.bcan.org or call 888-901-BCAN.

SOURCE Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network