Action Bladder Cancer UK (ABC UK) has officially launched the Bladder Cancer Audit Pilot (BCAP), a major new research initiative designed to gather vital evidence and data about bladder cancer which can lead to improvements and treatment consistency, and drive better outcomes for bladder cancer patients across England and Wales. Running through 2027, BCAP is an 18-month data research project solely funded by ABC UK.

The Urgent Need for a Bladder Cancer Audit 

Despite being one of the most common cancers in the UK, bladder cancer is currently excluded from the 10 national cancer audits overseen by the National Cancer Audit Collaborating Centre (NATCAN). Existing audits for cancers in other sites, such as lung and prostate, have led to streamlined referral pathways, standardised care and, for some cancers, significant improvements in 5-year patient survival rates.

Bladder cancer is frequently diagnosed at a later stage and carries high rates of recurrence and mortality. Clinical data shows significant regional and procedural variations in how surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are used, yet a lack of an overview of centralised national data makes it difficult to map these disparities accurately.

How BCAP Will Impact Patient Care

By analysing routinely collected, anonymised, NHS Trust data on diagnosis, treatments, and outcomes, BCAP aims to provide a clear, up-to-date picture of bladder cancer care. The project will work to:

• Identify Regional Variances: Map disparities in care and treatment initiation to ensure equitable access to best practices.
• Inform Modern Treatment Protocols: Evaluate how recent advancements in diagnostics and therapies can be implemented most effectively.
• Demonstrate National Feasibility: Build a robust clinical evidence base to prove the long-term necessity of an official NATCAN national bladder cancer audit.

Next Steps 

Designed in close collaboration with clinical experts, professional bodies, and patient advocates, BCAP will publish phased findings throughout its 18-month lifecycle to raise awareness and influence healthcare policy.

Get Involved 

To support ABC UK's research through donations, fundraising, or volunteering, visit www.actionbladdercanceruk.org/support-us/