Health Union Launches BladderCancer.net as its Newest Online Community

PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 7, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Many diagnosed with bladder cancer believe their healthcare can do a better job connecting them with support networks and other resources, according to findings in Health Union's latest survey, "Bladder Cancer In America."

The survey accompanied the launch of Health Union's newest online community, BladderCancer.net.

Nine in 10 respondents said they wished they knew more at the time of their bladder cancer diagnosis and more than one-third (36 percent) rated their healthcare provider as "poor" or "very poor" in referring them to resources or support networks.

"When I was initially diagnosed, my doctor really did not provide me with any place to go," said BladderCancer.net community advocate Curtis Garbett.

In discussing their diagnoss journey, 92 percent of respondents said they experienced symptoms that prompted them to see a physician, usually blood in urine (85 percent). However, 21 percent said they first received a misdiagnosis, often for a bladder or urinary tract infection.

Survey participants said bladder cancer has a negative effect on their lives; notably impacting their intimacy and sexual relationships (42 percent), ability to sleep (27 percent), and mood (24 percent).

"Bladder cancer's impact on someone's life, the need for emotional support, and ongoing frustrations with the condition underscore the need for an online community like BladderCancer.net," Garbett added.

"The survey results show interesting contrasts in experiences and opinions," said Health Union President and Co-founder Tim Armand. "Although there was dissatisfaction with their healthcare providers' ability to connect them with support networks, patients believe their doctors did a good job of explaining testing and treatment expectations, involving family in discussions, and sharing cancer-specific information."

"Bladder Cancer In America" was conducted from June to September 2017. A summary infographic of the results is available and additional details about the survey can be provided upon request.

About Health Union, LLC and BladderCancer.net

Health Union inspires people to live better with challenging health conditions - combining new, original content every day with digital, social and mobile technologies to cultivate active online health communities. BladderCancer.net is Health Union's online community dedicated to people living with bladder cancer, where patients and supporters of people living with this condition can connect, share experiences, and learn about managing it.

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SOURCE Health Union, LLC

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