National Bladder Cancer Walks Inspire 70 Communities Nationwide to Raise Awareness and Research Funds

BETHESDA, Md., May 21, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- More than 5,000 people in 70 communities nationwide participated in the third annual Walks for Bladder Cancer to raise more than $300,000 to foster research programs, patient education and public awareness of this common, yet often overlooked cancer.

Half of the funds raised through the Walks will be donated to promote bladder cancer research, a disease that, despite being the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S., has seen no new treatment options become available to patients in the last 20 years, and there are few promising therapies on the horizon.  

Bladder cancer is a significant health concern with a recurrence rate of 50-80% and, because it requires life-long surveillance, is one of the most expensive cancers to treat on a per patient basis.

Chaired by Chief Washington Correspondent for CBS News and bladder cancer survivor Bob Schieffer, the National Walks for Bladder Cancer took place from Campbell, California to Fort Walton Beach, Florida and from Yakima, Washington to Portland, Maine, generating much-needed increased awareness of the threat of bladder cancer.

"Bladder cancer affects women and men, young and old, and will take the lives of approximately 15,000 people this year alone. More action must be taken to combat the low levels of disease awareness, particularly around symptoms and diagnosis, so we can prevent needless deaths through education and awareness," said Diane Zipursky Quale, founder of BCAN. "Our National Walks strengthen the message of hope and support for those touched by bladder cancer and moves us closer to our goal of a cure by raising funds for crucial research. BCAN is thrilled to wrap up our third year with such success."

By bringing together bladder cancer patients, caregivers, loved ones and other allies in communities across the country, BCAN hopes to draw attention to the greater need for comprehensive and reliable information and support for those impacted by bladder cancer.

For more information about the Walks for Bladder Cancer, bladder cancer information and support or how you can become involved with BCAN, please visit www.bcan.org.

About the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
Founded in 2005, the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) is the only national organization devoted to advancing bladder cancer research and supporting those touched by the disease. Through a comprehensive program of research, education and advocacy, BCAN is the leading voice for bladder cancer. For more information, visit www.bcan.org.

SOURCE Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network