To characterize financial toxicity (FT) of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) among our uniquely diverse and urban population.
We surveyed a cohort of patients at our institution with NMIBC using the validated COST tool (COmprehensive Score for financial Toxicity). Scores are inversely correlated to the degree of FT. Scores of 25-14 indicated "Mild FT" and < 14 indicated "Moderate FT". Demographic and disease specific information were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.
Hundred patients with NMIBC were surveyed. The median age was 74 years (IQR, 66-79). A total of 39% were female; 35% identified as Caucasian, 26% as Black, and 37% as Hispanic. The median COST score was 23 (IQR,15-33). 61% of patients reported at least mild FT (COST score 25-14). A total of 21% reported moderate FT (COST score < 14). Black patients were more likely to experience FT than Caucasians (73% vs 37%, P < .05). Caucasian patients had a mean COST score 8 points higher than all other races combined (P < .01). Overall median household income was $30,000 (IQR, $18,250-$60,750), and increasing income had a significant positive correlation with COST score (Spearman ρ = 0.502, P < .001). Risk factors for FT included non-Caucasian race and lower education level.
In a diverse, urban population, rates of FT among NMIBC patients were higher than previously reported. FT may disproportionately affect non-Caucasian patients and may be related to decreased access to care. These results highlight the need to further assess and address FT in NMIBC patients.
Clinical genitourinary cancer. 2026 Apr 14 [Epub ahead of print]
Julia Nadelmann, Andrewe L Baca, Kevin Labagnara, Priya Dave, Alexander C Small, Alex Sankin
Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY., Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY; Department of Urology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY., Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY; Department of Urology, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY. Electronic address: .