In this study, the authors examined the use and characteristics of online crowdfunding campaigns available through GoFundMe for patients with urological cancers, who are often left covering significant cancer-related expenses out of pocket. Experiencing this type of financial distress or "financial toxicity" as it relates to cancer treatment has been shown to lead to delays in care and poor quality of life.1 Patients have also reported taking fewer medications than prescribed, replacing prescriptions with over-the-counter drugs, declining procedures and taking medications prescribed to others to defray the overall costs (reference 4 in article). Unfortunately, most clinicians do not routinely discuss treatment costs with their patients, despite the potential financial burden many may face.
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