The days September 21 and 22, VICARE GU participó por tercer año consecutivo en el World Bladder Cancer Patient Forum, organized by the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition (WBCPC) in the city of Hong Kong.
Representatives from Argentina and Latin America attended. Fiorella Gagliardi, President of VICARE GU, and the Dra. Cinthia Vallón, head of the Patient Legal Advisory Unit, who shared experiences and insights with patient organizations, healthcare professionals, researchers, and key figures from around the world.
A space to learn, share, and build together.
The first day was dedicated specifically to patient organizations and provided an opportunity to share experiences regarding the common challenges faced by people with bladder cancer across different countries. Key topics addressed included delayed diagnosis, barriers to accessing treatment, and the need to continue encouraging early medical consultation for symptoms such as the presence of blood in the urine.
Innovative initiatives developed by patient organizations from different regions were also presented, generating new ideas and opportunities for collaboration to strengthen advocacy, education, and support efforts.
Putting the patient voice at the center of the conversation
The second day brought together specialists, researchers, organizations, and patients to discuss advances in bladder cancer treatment, access to medical care, and the importance of incorporating the patient perspective into the design of clinical trials and health policies.
One of the key themes of the meeting was shared decision-making between patients and healthcare teams, as well as the recognition of the fundamental role played by caregivers throughout the course of the illness.
Likewise, the need to continue working to reduce diagnostic delays was highlighted, particularly in women, as some symptoms are often initially interpreted as other conditions.
Strengthening the work of VICARE GU
Participation in this World Forum enabled VICARE GU to access new tools, learn about successful experiences from other countries, and strengthen ties with organizations working daily to improve the quality of life for people affected by bladder cancer.
We return with new insights, ideas, and projects that will help further strengthen our efforts to raise awareness, educate, provide support, and defend patient rights in Argentina.
💙 We thank the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition (WBCPC) for the invitation and for creating these spaces for international meeting and collaboration that allow the patient voice to continue being heard around the world.
