The majority of people requiring a urinary diversion do so because of bladder cancer. It is therefore with great anticipation that we welcomed the Department of Health and Social Care’s (DHSC) new National Cancer Plan for England, launched today (4 February 2026).
Bladder cancer is classified as one of the rare and less common cancers – with breast, prostate, lung and bowel being the four most common. For the first time, the Government has made a clear commitment to focus specifically on rare and less common cancers within a national strategy, with a dedicated chapter in the Plan. This is a significant and welcome milestone, reflecting growing recognition of the distinct challenges faced by people affected by these cancers.
The Plan addresses many of the longstanding inequalities experienced by people with rare and less common cancers, including poorer survival rates, delayed diagnosis, lower awareness of symptoms, limited data, and fewer treatment options.
The Plan includes 13 commitments directly related to rare and less common cancers, and in practice, almost all of the 70+ wider recommendations are intended to be inclusive of these cancers as well.
We would like to thank Cancer52 for representing our charity, alongside many others, in its engagement with the DHSC on this important development.
We are particularly grateful to Cancer52 for its commitment to work with DHSC to monitor progress against the Plan, including the development of quality standards and cancer manuals, faster decision-making on treatments and medical technologies, improved access to genomic testing, and the delivery of personalised care plans.
Brian Fretwell, the Urostomy Association’s Chairman, welcomed the National Cancer Plan, saying:
“The publication of the National Cancer Plan is an important moment, particularly its explicit focus on rare and less common cancers. These cancers, including bladder cancer, have too often been overlooked, leaving patients with poorer outcomes, delayed diagnosis and limited treatment options and, for many, the life-changing reality of living with a urostomy.
I remember when I was diagnosed with bladder cancer 15 years ago. I had only one showing of blood in my urine and I went straight to my GP. Three months later I had my bladder removed and have lived with a stoma ever since. I know how vital early diagnosis and speedy treatment are, particularly when your mind’s in turmoil.
It is encouraging to see these challenges acknowledged within a national strategy. The real test will be how these commitments are put into action, and we are keen to work with Cancer52 and other partners to ensure the Plan delivers meaningful improvements for bladder cancer patients and their families.”
