Living with bladder cancer can mean facing challenges that others can’t see. People may not realize what you’re going through because they don’t know what bladder cancer looks or feels like.

This is one area where raising awareness can really help. Even though bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S., many people don’t see its symptoms. When people learn different facts about bladder cancer, they may notice symptoms in themselves or others sooner, get tests for early detection, show more compassion for those living with it, and support research for a cure.

Here are some ways you can help raise awareness about bladder cancer today.

Wear a Bladder Cancer Ribbon

Many diseases, including different types of cancer, are represented by colored awareness ribbons. The bladder cancer ribbon is a combination of purple, dark blue, and yellow.

You can make your own ribbons for bladder cancer or other forms of cancer, or buy them online. You can also find ribbon designs representing different cancer types on shirts, hats, bags, key chains, and more.

Once you have your cancer ribbon, apparel, or accessory, wear it proudly. People may ask you what it stands for. Be ready to share facts about bladder cancer. You might want to talk about:

• Bladder cancer survival rates
• Tumors
• Risk factors
• The importance of regular screenings
• The number of new cases each year
• Your own experience (if you’re comfortable)

Your bladder cancer awareness ribbon may also help you connect with others who understand the disease, like survivors or caregivers. This can help you extend your support network and raise even more awareness.

Celebrate Bladder Cancer Awareness Month

May is Bladder Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout the month, you’ll have more opportunities to raise awareness about bladder cancer. The goal is to help people detect bladder cancer early and show support for those who are living with it.

Bladder cancer advocacy started only 10 years ago in the U.S., but it’s now growing worldwide, thanks to nonprofit organizations.

In May, you’ll find many events related to bladder cancer. There are Walks To End Bladder Cancer around the country, online meetings where you can hear from bladder cancer specialists, and art created by people who have been affected by bladder cancer. Some organizations also give awards to people who have raised awareness about bladder cancer.

All of these help people learn more about bladder cancer and support those who are living with it, as well as the community that cares for them. There are different offerings every year, so remember to look up what’s happening every time May comes around.

Attend a Bladder Cancer Awareness Event

There are many events designed to raise awareness and encourage advocacy around bladder cancer. Some happen in May, while others take place year-round.

The Walk To End Bladder Cancer happens in different cities across the U.S. There’s also a virtual option if you can’t attend in person. These walks are aimed at raising awareness while also fundraising for bladder cancer research and support. If you want to walk and raise funds, you can register online.

If walking isn’t an option for you right now, you can try participating in online activities. For example, “Spot the Drop!” is an online game that teaches people about blood in urine, a key symptom of bladder cancer. Playing is an easy way to participate in a bladder cancer awareness campaign from home.

If you’re looking for something more local, consider joining a local BCAN chapter. These groups focus on raising awareness about bladder cancer. If there isn’t one near you, you could start your own.

Share Bladder Cancer Survivor Stories

Sharing stories of people who have survived bladder cancer helps raise awareness and support. If you’re a survivor, you can start by talking to friends, family, and neighbors. You can also consider sharing on social media — just be ready for unexpected interactions.

If you want to highlight other’ experiences, sharing artwork is a great place to start. Many people love looking at art and might engage more with visual stories than written or spoken ones.

Survivor stories also help people understand the importance of bladder cancer research. It might even inspire them to donate money to the cause. For example, the American Association for Cancer Research has a story you can share about how medical innovations can save lives and improve health outcomes. When people see that research is producing good outcomes, they may be more likely to support the cause.

Participate in Bladder Cancer Social Media Campaigns

Whether you choose to share your own story or not, social media is a powerful tool for awareness — anytime, but especially in May.

The World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition offers free resources including infographics, educational videos (such as one on bladder cancer symptoms), and other content you can share. The organization also has an icon you can download to use as a profile picture on social media or post to show support.

If you’re participating in any bladder cancer awareness events, you can post about these online, too. You can ask for donations, or simply share information to start conversations about bladder cancer.

Adding relevant hashtags to your social media posts can help others affected by bladder cancer — or those who want to learn about it — find your content. Since awareness themes may change each year, it’s a good idea to check online for the latest bladder cancer awareness hashtags before posting, especially during May (Bladder Cancer Awareness Month).

Support Bladder Cancer Research

One of the most meaningful ways to help is by supporting bladder cancer research. You can learn about the latest treatments through the American Association for Cancer Research. Another way to help is by donating to fund important studies that could save lives.

If you want to do more than donate, the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network offers a variety of ways to raise money to end bladder cancer. One option the organization offers is a “Fundraise Your Way” program. This lets you create a personal fundraising page where you can share your story and more. By participating, you’ll be supporting a trusted organization that’s making real progress.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyBladderCancerTeam is the social network for people with bladder cancer and their loved ones. On MyBladderCancerTeam, members and their families come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with bladder cancer.

Have you ever raised awareness for bladder cancer? What is your favorite way to do that? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.