WASHINGTON, May 14, 2026
Johnson & Johnson released findings from a groundbreaking global survey revealing the significant physical, emotional, and mental burden experienced by patients undergoing current standard-of-care treatments for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Conducted by The Harris Poll in collaboration with the International Bladder Cancer Group, World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition, and Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, the survey included responses from 817 NMIBC patients and 802 urologists across six countries. The findings highlight growing concerns around quality of life, treatment-related distress, and the urgent need for more patient-centered therapeutic innovation in bladder cancer care.
The survey revealed that more than 90% of patients who underwent either radical cystectomy (bladder removal surgery) or BCG therapy reported major negative impacts on nearly every aspect of daily life. Patients described severe effects on physical health, emotional well-being, mental health, self-esteem, body image, and participation in social activities. Among those treated with BCG, approximately 76% described managing treatment-related symptoms as humiliating, while many reported feelings of lost dignity, loss of control over their bodies, and constant fear of cancer recurrence.
Patients Report Severe Emotional and Lifestyle Impact
Researchers found that the emotional burden associated with bladder cancer often remains hidden during treatment. About 74% of patients admitted they conceal the emotional impact of their disease, with one-third saying they frequently hide their feelings from others. Additionally, 86% of patients reported constant worry about their cancer returning or worsening, reflecting the persistent psychological strain associated with long-term surveillance and invasive therapies.
The survey also highlighted the major disruption bladder cancer treatment causes in patients’ daily lives. Nearly 94% of patients reported missing important life events because of treatment-related challenges. Many patients avoided leaving their homes, socializing with friends and family, or participating in public activities. Almost half of respondents identified depression and anxiety as key reasons behind these missed life experiences. These findings demonstrate how bladder cancer affects not only physical health but also relationships, independence, and overall quality of life.
Urologists Support Need for Better Treatment Options
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The survey showed strong alignment between patients and physicians regarding the need for improved therapies and support systems. A large majority of urologists expressed interest in more innovative bladder cancer treatments that better reflect patient preferences, minimize life disruption, and improve long-term quality of life. Nearly 90% of urologists stated they wished there were better ways to address the emotional and psychological impact of bladder cancer treatment during patient care.
Experts involved in the study emphasized that current standard therapies often force patients into extremely difficult treatment decisions. Ashish M. Kamat, M.D., founding president of the International Bladder Cancer Group and professor of urologic oncology at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, noted that the decision to remove the bladder remains one of the most emotionally challenging crossroads for patients with NMIBC. He stated that the findings reinforce the importance of shared decision-making, realistic patient expectations, and accelerated innovation to provide more treatment options aligned with patient goals and lifestyle needs.
Alex Filicevas, executive director of the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition, emphasized that patients frequently carry the emotional burden of bladder cancer silently. He explained that the survey clearly demonstrates how the impact of NMIBC treatments extends far beyond the clinic, affecting emotional well-being, dignity, and daily functioning. Advocacy leaders believe continued innovation is critical to developing therapies that reduce disruption and improve patient-centered care.
Demand Grows for Innovation in Bladder Cancer Care
The survey findings arrive at a time when the bladder cancer community is increasingly focused on advancing less invasive and more tolerable treatment approaches. Patients and physicians alike are calling for therapies that preserve quality of life while effectively managing disease progression. The results also underscore the importance of integrating emotional support, mental health resources, and quality-of-life discussions into routine bladder cancer care.
As healthcare companies and researchers continue developing next-generation bladder cancer therapies, the survey provides important real-world insight into the unmet needs facing NMIBC patients globally. Industry experts believe the findings could help guide future innovation, clinical development priorities, and patient support strategies aimed at improving outcomes beyond traditional clinical measures.
Source: Johnson & Johnson press release
