The CABEM Initiative: Saving Patients With Muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer

Abstract

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is an aggressive disease with a complex treatment. In Brazil, as in most developing countries, data are scarce, but mortality seems exceedingly high. We have created a centralized program involving a multidisciplinary clinic in a region comprising 7 municipalities. Helping patients with adequate performance status get the right treatment helped to reduce 90-day mortality after radical cystectomy from 37% to 1.9%.

Keywords

• bladder cancer
• coordination of care
• regional medical programs
• hospital mortality
• patient navigation
• patient care team