Bladder Cancer Matters
Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
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Bladder Cancer Matters is the podcast for, by and about the bladder cancer community. Host Rick Bangs interviews interesting guests from the bladder cancer community, including patients, survivors, advocates, medical professionals, researchers, caregivers and more. It is brought to you by the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network.
Available episodes
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May 24, 2023
What Do I Do If BCG Treatments Don't Work with Dr. Michael O'Donnell
In Episode 45 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Michael O'Donnell, Director of Urologic Oncology at the University of Iowa. He is the author of over 150 peer-reviewed manuscripts and serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Urology and CURE. Dr. O'Donnell leads several national clinical trials using immune therapy to treat bladder cancer.
Rick and and Dr. O'Donnell talk about:
* Why BCG is the gold standard when treating non-muscle invasive bladder cancer
* How Dr. O'Donnell has dealt with the BCG shortage while studying the effectiveness of other intravesical treatments
* When BCG treatments fail a patient, what options they may have
* New drugs and treatments like Adstiladrin, a genetically engineered virus that produces interferon
* What patients need to know about the toxicity of non-muscle invasive treatments for bladder cancer
* What "salvage treatments" are
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform. Thank you for listening!
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May 15, 2023
I Got Bladder Cancer at 22 Years of Age with Kristen S.
In Episode 45 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with a very special guest, Kristen. She was diagnosed with bladder cancer at 22 years of age (the average age at diagnosis is 73). She had to fight for a correct diagnosis, including when one of her doctors told her that she was just “getting fat.” Kristen S.
Rick and and Kristen chat about her journey and how she struggled to get her doctors to take her seriously. They talk about:
* Her symptoms and how she bounced around between doctors before she finally got her diagnosis
* How a urologist told her in passing that she had bladder cancer (and then left the room)
* How she decided to talk with others about her bladder cancer – who to tell and when
* The role that her mom (a nurse) played in Kristen’s journey
* The crippling financial impact of bladder cancer on AYAs – adolescent and young adults
* The advice that she would give to someone else who is young and receives a bladder cancer diagnosis
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform
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Apr 24, 2023
What Are Bladder Cancer Guidelines and Why Do They Matter to Patients?
In Episode 44 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Thomas Flaig, MD, a genitourinary cancer medical oncologist and vice chancellor for research for the University of Colorado Denver and Anschutz Medical Campuses. In addition to his clinical and administrative work, Dr. Flaig has significant clinical and translational research experience, having led both local and national multi-center clinical trials. Known nationally for his work on bladder cancer, Dr. Flaig has been a member of the National Cancer Institute’s Investigational Drug Steering Committee and the bladder cancer task force.
Rick and Dr. Flaig talk about bladder cancer treatment guidelines and why they should matter to patients and the survivors. They discuss:
* What defines guidelines
* How many bladder cancer guidelines there are
* What those who are developing the guidelines do when new evidence comes out that could impact treatments
* The process of generating a patient-friendly version of guidelines
* How doctors apply guidelines to patients and if it is art, science, or both
* The most significant changes that Dr. Flaig has seen in his 10 years of working on bladder cancer guidelines
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Feb 28, 2023
Bladder Cancer Was Sue's Third Type of Cancer
In Episode 43 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with bladder cancer survivor, Sue. Sue's story is both meaningful and inspirational - bladder cancer was her third different cancer diagnosis. Rick and Sue talk about:
* The signs and symptoms that Sue experienced with her prior diagnoses for thyroid and breast cancer
* What drove her to see her doctor when she began experiencing blood in her urine
* How her bladder cancer treatment experience was different than her prior two bouts with cancer
* How Sue grappled with whom to tell about her cancer diagnoses and when
* Her experience with BCG treatments
* How adding Interferon to her BCG treatments helped her
* Tips that she has for others who have to undergo cystoscopies
* How Sue discovered BCAN and how the organization has helped her
Sue also volunteers in BCAN's Survivor to Survivor program that matches newly diagnosed bladder cancer patients with survivors who have undergone similar experiences.
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Feb 14, 2023
How Walking Helps to End Bladder Cancer, with Rebecca Yannopoulos
In Episode 42 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks Rebecca Yannopoulos, BCAN's Senior Development Manager and the person who has made Walks to End Bladder Cancer happen since 2017. Rick and Rebecca chat about:
* Her work supporting BCAN's dedicated Walk volunteers and fundraisers
* How the Walks to End Bladder Cancer got started
* When people should start planning to do a Walk
* How people can participate in a 2023 Walk
* What you can do if there is not an in-person Walk near you
* New, cool incentive prizes in 2023
To find a Walk near you, please visit bcanwalk.org.
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform and don't forget to like and share our podcast!
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Feb 1, 2023
Canadian Perspectives on Bladder Cancer with Michelle Colero and Cassandra Schooley
In Episode 41 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Michelle Colero and Cassandra Schooley, both of Bladder Cancer Canada (BCC). Michelle is the organization's Executive Director and Cassandra is its Communications Specialist.
Rick, Michelle and Cassandra talk about:
* The history of collaboration between BCAN and Bladder Cancer Canada
* How Canada has greatly improved their supply of BCG
* The inquiries that BCC has fielded from Americans traveling to, seeking medical care in or working in Canada
* Differences between the Canadian and U.S. healthcare systems
* Why so many Canadian doctors and nurses are leaving their country to work in the United States
* Inequalities that exist in the Canadian healthcare system
* How the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition works with BCAN and BCC
Bladder Cancer Canada is the first and only Canadian patient advocacy organization dedicated to bladder cancer issues. You can learn more about them here.
You can also reach them by phone at 1-866-674-8889 or via email at info@bladdercancercanada.org.
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Jan 24, 2023
BCAN's Role in Bladder Cancer Research
In Episode 40 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Rebecca Johnson, the Director of Research at the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network. Rebecca is responsible for the day-to-day operational oversight and management of all research grant activities. She also manages BCAN grants from pre-award through award close-out while working closely with BCAN’s senior management team and Board of Directors to successfully achieve desired research outcomes.
Rick and Rebecca talk about:
* Why a Director of Research role was created at BCAN
* BCAN research focus areas
* How BCAN funds bladder cancer research
* How the patient voice is always incorporated into BCAN-funded research
* How BCAN decides what research to fund
* Key research that BCAN has funded in the past
* What’s new and upcoming in bladder cancer research in 2023
You can learn more about BCAN’s research programs and funding mechanisms here.
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Jan 19, 2023
What is Bladder Cancer Pathology?
In Episode 39 of "Bladder Cancer Matters," host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Matthew Mossanen about what pathology is and why it matters to bladder cancer patients. Dr. Mossanen is a urologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital, holds a Master's Degree in Public Health and is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Matthew Mossanen
Rick and Dr. Mossanen talk about:
* What pathology means to both doctors and patients for staging and grading bladder cancer tumors
* How pathology and tumor profiling are related
* How staging and grading is open to interpretation by your medical team
* The importance of a second opinion for pathology reports
* How doctors should work to make pathology reports understandable for patients
* Dr. Mossanen's work on a patient-centered, understandable pathology report for people with bladder cancer
* The importance of patients not consulting "Dr. Google" to interpret their pathology reports
You can learn more about bladder cancer staging and grading on BCAN's web site.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network.
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Jan 3, 2023
What a Robotic Cystectomy is with Dr. Dipen Parekh
In Episode 38 of "Bladder Cancer Matters," host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Dipen Parekh about robotic cystectomies. Dr. Parekh is the Chief Operating Officer at the University of Miami Health System, Chairman of Urology, and the Dr. Victor Politano Endowed Chair in Clinical Urology at the Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami. He also serves as the Director of Robotic Surgery at the University of Miami Health System.
Rick and Dr. Parekh talk about what a robotic cystectomy is and who might be a candidate for it. They also discuss:
* How a robotic cystectomy compares to the open and laparoscopic surgeries
* When robotic cystectomies were first used
* How the robotic technology is used now
* How the technology has changed over time
* If robotic surgery is appropriate for all types of urinary diversions
* How to find a surgeon who specializes in robotic cystectomies
Dr. Parekh also talks about why most robotic cystectomies are performed in large, high-volume hospitals vs. community cancer centers.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network.
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Dec 1, 2022
What to Know About BCG Treatments for Bladder Cancer with Dr. Ashish Kamat
In Episode 37 of "Bladder Cancer Matters," host Rick Bangs talks with two-time return guest Dr. Ashish Kamat. Dr. Kamat is a professor of urology and director of bladder cancer research at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. He's also a member of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network's Scientific Advisory Board.
Rick and Dr. Kamat talk about what is on the mind of many bladder cancer patients: what to expect before, during and after BCG treatments for non muscle-invasive bladder cancer. They chat about:
* How BCG treatments work
* What patients can expect before treatment – is there any sort of prep required?
* What the treatment itself is like
* What patients and expect following a treatment, including side effects
* The “right” number of treatments, given that some patients are receiving fewer treatments because of COVID or the shortage
Dr. Kamat's prior two Bladder Cancer Matters podcast episodes include:
* Episode 1, What’s Up with Bladder Cancer and BCG, with Dr. Ashish Kamat
* Episode 4, The Slippery Slope of Bladder Cancer, Staging and Radical Cystectomies with Dr. Ashish Kamat
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network.
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Nov 11, 2022
A Vietnam Veterans Who Faced Bladder Cancer with Jim Scott
In Episode 36 of "Bladder Cancer Matters," host Rick Bangs talks with BCAN patient advocate and bladder cancer survivor, James "Jim" Scott. Jim was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2015 and is an active BCAN patient advocate, on the Patient Advisory Panel of the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition (WBCPC), and a consumer reviewer for the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs, among other roles.
Rick and Jim talk about:
* Jim's exposure to Agent Orange while serving in the Army in Vietnam
* How he got his diagnosis and what led him to go back to his doctor after being treated with antibiotics for some time
* How Jim discovered BCAN
* His relationship with fellow bladder cancer patient Roger as Roger faced the end of his life
* Why people of color face different health outcomes than others and what can be done about it
* Jim's work with the Black Men’s Cancer Action Council in Detroit, Michigan
Jim is so passionate about helping fellow bladder cancer pati…
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Oct 18, 2022
Palliative Care and Bladder Cancer Patients with Dr. Lee Hugar
In Episode 35 of "Bladder Cancer Matters," host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Lee Hugar of Lexington Urology at Lexington Medical Center in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Hugar is recognized nationally as an advocate for incorporating palliative care into urologic care, maximizing both cancer control and quality of life for patients with any stage of urologic cancer.
Read this episode’s transcript
Rick and Dr. Hugar discuss:
* What palliative care is and when a bladder cancer patient might need it
* That palliative care is appropriate for patients of any age, with any condition
* How it is different than hospice care
* Who can request palliative care
* The role of family members and loved ones
* How long a bladder cancer patient can receive palliative care
* Why more patients should consider palliative care
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Sep 29, 2022
Bladder Cancer and Ostomies with Wound and Ostomy Nurse Cindy Myers
In Episode 34 of "Bladder Cancer Matters," host Rick Bangs talks with Cindy Myers, RN BSN CWON. Cindy is a Certified Wound and Ostomy Nurse Specialist who has worked extensively with bladder cancer patients who undergone radical cystectomies.
Rick and Cindy discuss:
* What an ostomy is and the types of ostomies that are used by patients, especially bladder cancer patients
* The role that ostomy nurses play as patients choose their urinary diversion and prepare for surgery
* The most common questions that she gets from patients both before and after having their bladders removed
* What seems to surprise patients who receive an ileal conduit
* Sex and intimacy when having an ostomy
Rick and Cindy talk about these topics and much more in the podcast. If you would like more information about choosing a urinary diversion, you'll want to listen to Part 1 and Part 2 of the "How to Choose a Urinary Diversion" podcast with Dr. Robert Svatek.
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Sep 27, 2022
Veterans Benefits for Bladder Cancer Patients
This this podcast, "Bladder Cancer Matters" host Rick Bangs talks with Ms. Jackie Imboden. Jackie is a special advisor for military exposures for the Veterans Benefits Administration or VBA, which provides disability compensation benefits to millions of veterans and their survivors. In her current role, she serves as a key advisor on military environmental exposures for disability compensation claims.
Jackie and Rick discuss:
* How to apply for VA benefits
* What disability compensation is and who may qualify for it
* What a presumptive service connection is
* Where veterans can go for help when navigating the VA system
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform like:
* Apple Podcasts
* Google Podcasts
* Spotify
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network.
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Sep 20, 2022
Part II of How to Choose a Urinary Diversion with Dr. Robert Svatek
In Episode 32, Part 2 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Robert Svatek. Dr. Svatek is one of the top five highest-volume bladder cancer surgeons in the United States, performing over 60 bladder removal procedures (cystectomies) yearly. Choosing a urinary diversion is among the most difficult decisions patients must make and Dr. Svatek provides valuable information about how to make an informed decision.
Rick and Dr. Svatek talk about:
* Common questions from patients who have to choose a urinary diversion
* A study showing how Hispanic patients don't always get the same diversions compared to their white counterparts
* The differences between open vs. robotic radical cystectomies
* Follow up medical care after receiving a urinary diversion
* What's new and exciting in patient care post radical cystectomy
You can also listen to Part 1 of this podcast with Rick and Dr. Svatek.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of…
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Sep 13, 2022
How to Choose a Urinary Diversion with Dr. Robert Svatek
In Episode 32, Part 1 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Robert Svatek. Dr. Svatek is one of the top five highest-volume bladder cancer surgeons in the United States, performing over 60 bladder removal procedures (cystectomies) yearly. Choosing a urinary diversion is among the most difficult decisions patients must make and Dr. Svatek provides valuable information about how to make an informed decision.
Rick and Dr. Svatek talk about:
* What a urinary diversion is
* What patients should consider when choosing a diversion
* Diversions that a patient could choose from and how are they constructed
* Rick's experience as a patient who had a neobladder constructed in 2006
* What to look for in a surgeon and how and how to find that person
* Advantages and disadvantages or robotic vs. open surgery to remove the bladder
Stay tuned for Part II of the conversation between Rick and Dr. Svatek.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast ar…
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Aug 31, 2022
How COVID Changed How Bladder Cancer Doctors and Patients Interact with Dr. Sima Porten
In Episode 31 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Sima Porten, a urologic cancer surgeon at the University of California San Francisco, about how COVID changed the way that bladder cancer doctors and patients interact.
Rick and Dr. Porten talk about:
* Some of the experiences of patients during the COVID-19 pandemic
* How medical distancing impacted Dr. Porten personally as well as her colleagues
* How she used telemedicine during the pandemic
* The use of in-home tests for bladder cancer that used to be done in a doctor’s office
* Disparities in bladder cancer medical care
* How COVID impacted bladder cancer clinical trial operations
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Aug 2, 2022
Veterans and Bladder Cancer: What You Need to Know with Dr. Joshua Meeks
In Episode 30 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Joshua Meeks. Dr. Meeks is the Section Chief of Robotic Surgery at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center and an Associate Professor of Urology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
Rick and Dr, Meeks talk about:
* Options available to veterans who are bladder cancer patients at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center
* A link between bladder cancer and environments some veterans have been exposed to during their service
* Bladder cancer research being conducted at the VA
* A program in which the VA and the National Cancer Institute have partnered to make clinical trials more accessible (NAVIGATE)
Never miss and episode by subscribing to Bladder Cancer Matters in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Jul 20, 2022
Being a Bladder Cancer Beacon of Hope with Karen Godfrey, Part III
In Episode 29 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs offers Part III of the three-part podcast with long time patient advocate and 2022 Beacon of Hope Award winner, Karen Godfrey. Karen is the organizer of the Southwest Florida Bladder Cancer Support Group and has been active with BCAN since nearly the very beginning.
Rick and Karen talk about her experience managing what was an in-person support group during COVID, the value of support networks and connecting the right people who have similar diagnoses, what some of her best meetings were and offers advice for others who are thinking about starting their own bladder cancer group.
You can listen to Part 1 of Rick's conversation with Karen here and Part II here. Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
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Jul 5, 2022
Being a Bladder Cancer Beacon of Hope with Karen Godfrey, Part II
In Episode 29 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs offers Part II of the three-part podcast with long time patient advocate and 2022 Beacon of Hope Award winner, Karen Godfrey. Karen is the organizer of the Southwest Florida Bladder Cancer Support Group and has been active with BCAN since the very beginning.
Rick and Karen talk about how she started the BCAN Inspire community and how the group has grown to more than 53,000 people today, how she deals with loss when a member of her group passes away, and the advice that she would give to someone who is considering starting a bladder cancer support group in their own community.
Karen and Rick also talk about effective ways to be your own advocate with doctors and other medical professionals.
You can listen to Part 1 of Rick's conversation with Karen here and stay tuned for Part III of this special three-part podcast.
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcasting platform.
Disclaimer…
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May 10, 2022
Tom Faced Bladder Cancer and Pancreatic Cancer at the Same Time
Tom had a history of cancer in his family, but never expected what happened to him. After not feeling well for a while, Tom was diagnosed with both pancreatic cancer and bladder cancer. In this episode, he talks with BCAN associate Joslyn Brown about his two cancer journeys and offers an optimistic and uplifting perspective, particularly about his bouts with bladder cancer.
Tom is also active with BCAN's Survivor to Survivor program matching newly diagnosed bladder cancer patients with trained volunteers who lend a sympathetic ear as well as what BCAN has meant to him.
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Apr 20, 2022
Part 2 of Quality of Life After Bladder Removal Surgery with Dr. Bernard Bochner
In Part 2 of two part Episode 24 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs interviews Dr. Bernard Bochner about the findings from a quality of life survey of bladder cancer patients after they have their bladders removed (radical cystectomy).
Rick and Dr. Bochner discuss life after a radical cystectomy and they also talk about:
* How recovery from bladder removal surgery can be impacted by how healthy patients were leading up to the surgery
* How the first six weeks after the surgery can be very difficult for patients
* That some patients experience a drop off in sexual function, both men and women
* What other factors of quality of life Dr. Bochner's patient survey addressed
* How bladder removal surgery can impact patients' physical and mental health
Click here to listen to Part 1 of Rick's conversation with Dr. Bochner.
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Apr 6, 2022
Karen's Story: Bladder Cancer Nurse, Patient and Caregiver
In this very special episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Karen Sachse. Karen has a one-in-a-million perspective on bladder cancer because she is an oncology nurse, a nurse navigator, a bladder cancer survivor and was a caregiver to her husband, Roger, who passed away from the disease. She is also a very active patient advocate with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network.
Rick and Karen talk about:
* Her bladder cancer diagnosis and treatment
* Caring for her husband when he got bladder cancer
* How her late husband benefited from BCAN’s programs and services
* Why she participates in the Walks to End Bladder Cancer and thinks that others should too
* How to get involved with BCAN
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by searching for it on your favorite podcasting platform and clicking the "subscribe" button.
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Apr 5, 2022
Update: What You Need to Know About COVID Vaccines and Bladder Cancer
One of Season 1's most popular episodes was What You Need to Know About COVID Vaccines and Bladder Cancer with Dr. Seth Lerner and Dr. Laila Woc-Colburn. Given the changing nature of COVID transmission and the availability of vaccinations, Drs. Lerner and Woc-Colburn have updates about vaccinations for patients in the bladder cancer community.
Dr. Seth Lerner of Baylor College of Medicine, a bladder cancer doctor, and Dr. Laila Woc-Colburn, an infectious disease doctor at Emory Healthcare, tackle these questions and more with "Bladder Cancer Matters" host Rick Bangs.
They also discuss:
* What is happening with COVID now in the U.S.
* The safety data available for mRNA vaccines
* The low risk of vaccination for bladder cancer patients
* Risks of getting COVID in a medical facility
* Why delaying bladder cancer treatment because of COVID concerns is not advisable
* Timing of COVID vaccination with bladder cancer treatment
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Mar 22, 2022
Quality of Life After Bladder Removal Surgery with Dr. Bernard Bochner
In Part 1 of two part Episode 24 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs interviews Dr. Bernard Bochner.
Rick and Dr. Bochner discuss the findings of a quality of life survey conducted with more than 400 patients who underwent a radical cystectomy. Dr. Bochner and his team studied the importance of selecting the best urinary diversion for each patient and measures of his or her urinary and bowel function, sexual function and mental and emotional health.
Part 2 of their conversation will be published soon.
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Mar 8, 2022
What's the Connection Between Bladder Cancer and Environmental Exposure?
In Episode 23 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Stella Koutros and Molly Jacobs about how environmental exposure to chemicals is linked to bladder cancer. Stella Koutros, Ph.D., M.P.H. is an Investigator in the Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch of the National Cancer Institute and Molly Jacobs, M.P.H. is a Senior Research Associate and Project Manager at the Lowell Center for Sustainable Production and UMass Lowell.
Rick, Stella and Molly discuss how evidence supports a correlation between rates of bladder cancer and exposure to environmental chemicals. They also cover:
* Occupational exposures are a leading risk factor for bladder cancer, second only to smoking
* How certain jobs pose a greater risk of developing bladder cancer based upon the materials you touch or inhale
* What people can do if they find themselves at risk for environmental exposure to carcinogens
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Feb 22, 2022
What Are Biomarkers and Why Do They Matter to Bladder Cancer Patients?
In Episode 22 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Drs. Phil Abbosh and Max Kates about bladder cancer biomarkers. Dr. Abbosh is a urologic oncologist at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. Dr. Kates is an assistant professor of urology and oncology with the Brady Urological Institute at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore.
Rick and Drs. Abbosh and Kates talk about what biomarkers are and how they are relevant to bladder cancer. A biomarker is a biological molecule found in blood, other body fluids, or tissues that is a sign of a normal or abnormal process, or of a condition or disease. A biomarker may be used to see how well the body responds to a treatment for a disease or condition like bladder cancer.
Click here to read the transcript.
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Feb 9, 2022
What the Cancer Experience Registry Means to Bladder Cancer Patients with Dr. Kimberly Papay Rogers
In Episode 21 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Kimberly Papay Rogers, PhD, the Director of Research at the Cancer Support Community. Rick and Dr. Rogers discuss her work on the Cancer Experience Registry, an online research survey that helps enhance cancer care, improve health care policies, and ensure support services better reflect the needs of people affected by cancer.
They also discuss:
* What a cancer registry is
* Why bladder cancer was added to the registry
* Who can and should participate in the bladder cancer patient survey
* The findings' expected impact on bladder cancer treatment and experiences
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Feb 4, 2022
What World Cancer Day Means to the Bladder Cancer Community with Alex Filicevas
In this special 2022 World Cancer Day episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, BCAN's Director of Communications and Marketing talks with Alex Filicevas, the executive director of the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition (WBCPC).
Mark and Alex talk about how bladder cancer is a global health issue and the role that the WBCPC takes in helping to build infrastructure to help countries support patients and caregivers.
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Jan 3, 2022
How Patients Can Navigate the BCG Shortage with Dr. Robert Svatek
In this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Dr. Robert Svatek about how bladder cancer patients can navigate the ongoing BCG shortage. Rick and Dr. Svatek discuss:
* What BCG is and how it is used
* What the different strains are
* Why there is a BCG shortage
* What to do if your urologist doesn't have BCG
* Alternatives to BCG
* The trial Dr. Svatek is doing about the Japanese strain
* The future of BCG treatments
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcast platform, including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify.
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Dec 14, 2021
“I Think I am Probably the Happiest Ileal Conduit Person in the World” with Vicki S.
In this special episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, BCAN associate Joslyn Brown has a frank and uplifting conversation with Vicki S., who declares herself to be the “luckiest ileal conduit person in the world.” Joslyn and Vicki talk about:
* The symptoms that Vicki had well before her bladder removal surgery
* How relieved she was to have her bladder taken out
* What her recovery was like
* How happy she is to be alive and doing well after her surgery
We also encourage you to visit our web site for additional information about bladder removal surgery (radical cystectomy) as well as life with a urinary diversion.
* What is a radical cystectomy?
* Understanding Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancerhttps://bcan.org/understanding-bladder-cancer-muscle-invasive-bladder-cancer-mibc/ (webinar)
* The Psychosocial Aspect of Bladder Removal Surgery (webinar)
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Nov 19, 2021
What You Need to Know About Smoking and Bladder Cancer with Dr. Richard Matulewicz
In this special episode released on November 19, 2021 - the day of the Great American Smokeout - host Rick Bangs and Dr. Richard Matulewicz, a urologic oncologist and an assistant professor at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, talk about smoking and bladder cancer. They discuss:
* Who is smoking in 2021
* The fact that more than half of all bladder cancer cases can be directly tied to the effects of smoking - second only to lung cancer
* The types of bladder cancer that smokers tend to get
* How smoking impacts bladder cancer treatments
* That quitting smoking requires a team of people to help - it is not just up to the smoker
* Success factors in quitting smoking
* What Dr. Matulewicz would tell a patient who is trying to improve their smoking cessation results
These and other episodes by, for and about the bladder cancer community are available on the BCAN web site as well as on your favorite podcasting platform.
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Nov 10, 2021
Part 2: My Experiences as a Bladder Cancer Caregiver with Beáta Baker
Episode 16, Part 2 of the Bladder Cancer Matters podcast is about the unsung heroes of a bladder cancer patient’s journey: his or her caregivers. Rick’s special guest in this episode is Beáta Baker, who cared for her husband, Steven, as he battled his unexpected diagnosis and subsequent bladder removal surgery (radical cystectomy).
In the second of a two-part podcast and an engaging and personal conversation, Beáta describes her journey and experiences as a caregiver. Rick and she discuss:
* What was the recovery period like for your husband after receiving a neobladder?
* What roles did you play as caregiver?
* What roles have you played over the last ten years?
* What advice might you give to another bladder cancer patient caregiver?
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Oct 28, 2021
Part 1: My Experiences as a Bladder Cancer Caregiver with Beáta Baker
Episode 16, Part 1 of the Bladder Cancer Matters podcast is about the unsung heroes of a bladder cancer patient’s journey: his or her caregivers. Rick’s special guest in this episode is Beáta Baker, who cared for her husband, Steven, as he battled his unexpected diagnosis and subsequent bladder removal surgery (radical cystectomy).
In an engaging and personal conversation, Beáta describes her journey and growth as a caregiver. Rick and she discuss:
* What was it like to be Steven’s caregiver at different points in his journey, like diagnosis, treatment, recovery and planning?
* How did you and Steven decide upon right doctor, the right hospital, and the right treatment?
* What roles did you play during treatment planning?
* What were some of the challenging and rewarding parts of being a caregiver?
Beáta Jachulski Baker
Episode 16, Part 2 pf Rick’s conversation with Beáta will be available soon.
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Oct 26, 2021
I Can't Get Chemotherapy to Treat My Bladder Cancer - Now What? with Dr. Guru Sonpavde
Episode 15 of the Bladder Cancer Matters podcast is about a challenge facing many bladder cancer survivors: knowing that chemotherapy is the recommended treatment but finding out that it is not an option available to them. Its special guest is Dr. Guru Sonpavde, the Bladder Cancer Director at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.
In this podcast, Rick and Dr. Sonpavde discuss:
* What are the different types of chemotherapy for bladder cancer?
* Why are some more effective than others?
* therapy is the standard treatment for many muscle-invasive and metastatic bladder cancer patients, but for some patients, this is not even an option. In bladder cancer, who gets platinum chemo?
* Suppose I can’t have chemo. Can I have surgery? Would some of the things that make me ineligible for chemo make me ineligible for surgery?
* f I am ineligible, what are my alternatives today? What are their rates of success?
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Oct 12, 2021
Getting Ready for Chemotherapy and Bladder Cancer Surgery: Prehab and Nutrition with Dr. Sarah Psutka
Episode 14 is a reprise of a very popular webinar BCAN did in 2019 about how bladder cancer patients can prepare themselves for chemotherapy and surgery. Its guest is Dr. Sarah Psutka of the University of Washington. Dr. Psutka is a urologic oncologist specializing in bladder, renal, testicular and prostate cancer at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and also Assistant Professor of Urology at the University of Washington School of Medicine.
In this podcast, you’ll hear Dr. Psutka discuss what the diagnosis of bladder cancer feels like and then she will offer a step-by-step guide about how patients can take control of some of their bladder cancer treatments.
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Sep 9, 2021
Battling Aggressive Bladder Cancer in the Era of COVID - Margo's Story
In this special Episode 13 of Bladder Cancer Matters, patient Margo W. describes her unusual journey with bladder cancer. She was diagnosed with an aggressive form of the disease at the time when COVID began to severely impact patients throughout the U.S. Her type of bladder cancer was discovered only after seeking a second opinion, and the second set of doctors learned that her cancer was fast growing and dangerous.
In a personal and moving story, Margo recants her battle with bladder cancer and because of COVID, how she had to face much of the treatments and surgery alone.
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Aug 24, 2021
The Importance of a Second Opinion for Bladder Cancer Patients with Dr. Samuel Washington
In Episode 12 of Bladder Cancer Matters, Rick Bangs's special guest is Samuel L. Washington III, MD, MAS, of the University of California San Francisco Department of Urology. Dr. Washington is Assistant Professor of Urology, Goldberg-Benioff Endowed Professorship in Cancer Biology, and a recipient of BCAN's Young Investigator Award.
Rick and Dr. Washington discuss:
* Why should patients get a second opinion?
* Are there ever good reasons to NOT get a second opinion?
* Will my doctor support me getting a second opinion?
* What do you/should you tell the patient as a clinician when you hear them say they want to do this?
* What if the first and second opinions disagree?
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Aug 10, 2021
What is the Best “Light” to Detect Bladder Cancer When Getting a Cystoscopy? with Dr. Yair Lotan
In Episode 11 of Bladder Cancer Matters, Rick Bangs's special guest is Yair Lotan, M.D., a Professor of Urology and the Chief of Urologic Oncology, at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He is also the Medical Director of the Urology Clinic at UT Southwestern and Parkland Health and Hospital System. Dr. Lotan also serves on BCAN's Scientific Advisory Board.
Rick and Dr. Lotan discuss:
* When do urologists use a cystoscopy and why?
* What are the different types of light used in a cystoscopy, like white light, blue light and narrow band imaging?
* Is there anything that urologists can do to ease the discomfort of a cystoscopy?
* What is an enhanced cystoscopy?
* Should I shop around for different types of imaging?
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Jul 28, 2021
The Pluses and Minuses of Cystoscopies, TURBT and Other Bladder Cancer Diagnostic Tools with Dr. Alexander Kutikov
In Episode 10 of Bladder Cancer Matters, Rick Bangs's special guest is Dr. Alexander Kutikov, MD, FACS of Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. Dr. Kutikov is the Chief of the Division of Urology and Urologic Oncology.
Rick and Dr. Kutikov discuss:
* What can a cystoscopy tell you about the bladder cancer stage?
* Is a blue light cystoscopy better than a white light?
* What about x-rays and CT scans? Can they give you different information than a cystoscopy?
Never miss an episode by subscribing to Bladder Cancer Matters on your favorite podcast platform like Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music Podcasts.
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Jul 14, 2021
Part 3 of Why Nutrition is So Important for Bladder Cancer Patients with Dr. Jill Hamilton-Reeves
In this Part 3 of 3 of Episode 9 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs chats with Jill Hamilton-Reeves, PhD, RD, CSO. Dr. Reeves's research is focused on nutrition and cancer prevention, management, and survivorship, with specific attention on genitourinary cancers.
Rick and Dr. Reeves discuss:
* The importance of nutritional guidance right after bladder cancer surgery
* Why accredited cancer centers are required to have a nutritionist on staff
* What patients who have had a radical cystectomy need to do regarding diet and nutrition right after surgery
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Jul 7, 2021
Part 2: Why Nutrition is So Important for Bladder Cancer Patients with Dr. Jill Hamilton-Reeves
In this Part 2 of 3 of Episode 9 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs chats with Jill Hamilton-Reeves, PhD, RD, CSO. Dr. Reeves's research is focused on nutrition and cancer prevention, management, and survivorship, with specific attention on genitourinary cancers.
Rick and Dr. Reeves discuss:
* How good nutrition may help patients receiving immunotherapy, either by increasing the effectiveness of their immunotherapy or making the side effects more tolerable
* How fitness and nutrition before a radical cystectomy play into the results from the surgery including any complications
* How you can lose muscle - not fat - in the days after bladder cancer surgery
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Jun 28, 2021
Part 1: Why Nutrition is So Important for Bladder Cancer Patients with Dr. Jill Hamilton-Reeves
In this Part 1 of 3 of Episode 9 of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs chats with Jill Hamilton-Reeves, PhD, RD, CSO. Dr. Reeves is a registered and licensed dietitian with doctoral training in translational and clinical nutrition science. Dr. Reeves's research is focused on nutrition and cancer prevention, management, and survivorship, with specific attention on genitourinary cancers.
Rick and Dr. Reeves discuss:
* The relationship between nutrition and bladder cancer, and how that evolves at various points in the bladder cancer journey
* How being severely overweight can harm patients before, during and after treatment
* How to deal with lack of an appetite when receiving chemotherapy.
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Jun 17, 2021
Personalized Medicine and Bladder Cancer Patients with Dr. Matthew Milowsky
In Episode 8 of "Bladder Cancer Matters," host Rick Bangs interviews Dr. Matthew Milowsky about genetics, genomics and personalized medicine for bladder cancer treatment.
Dr. Milowsky is the Section Chief, Genitourinary Oncology; Co-Director, Urologic Oncology Program University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Dr. Milowsky is also the chair of BCAN's Bladder Cancer Genomics Consortium.
In this episode, Rick and Dr. Milowsky discuss:
* What the Bladder Cancer Genomics Consortium is and what it does
* What an "exceptional responder" is is bladder cancer
* The importance of clinical studies to the future of bladder cancer
* How philanthropy propels bladder cancer medical research
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May 20, 2021
The Future of Bladder Cancer Research with Rick Bangs and Diane Zipursky Quale
In this episode, Bladder Cancer Matters host Rick Bangs and guest and BCAN c-founder Diane Zipursky Quale discuss the fact that, despite significant advancements in the past 10 years in the understanding of the biology of bladder cancer and the development and approval of many new therapies, bladder cancer in 2021 remains a deadly disease with low public awareness, inequitable and inadequate funding, and a limited number of effective treatment options.
Rick and Diane also discuss the issue that bladder cancer research advances should be focused on improving the quality of life for patients from the time of initial diagnosis through the end of life, with an emphasis on improving the ability to stratify patients into the appropriate risk categories for recurrence and invasion and developing effective treatments to eliminate the need for bladder removal.
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Apr 28, 2021
Being a Bladder Cancer Patient with Carlos Glender
In this episode of "Bladder Cancer Matters," host (and bladder cancer survivor) Rick Bangs interviews Carlos Glender, a non-muscle invasive bladder cancer survivor. Carlos had a Stage 1 high-grade bladder cancer.
Rick and Carlos talk about the symptoms that Carlos experienced that led him to go to his doctor, what it was like to receive a bladder cancer diagnosis, being treated with BCG in a time when the drug is in short supply, what it was like to attend a BCAN Bladder Cancer Summit for Patients and Families, as well as the importance of maintaining a positive attitude.
This podcast was made possible by FerGene and Merck. We are grateful for their support.
Never miss an episode of Bladder Cancer Matters by subscribing in your favorite podcast platform.
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Mar 31, 2021
The Bladder Cancer Room Where It Happens with Dr. Elizabeth Plimack
Host Rick Bangs interviews Dr. Elizabeth Plimack of Fox Chase Cancer Center, where she is the Chief, Division of Genitourinary Medical Oncology. Dr. Plimack is also the Chair of the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network's (BCAN's) Scientific Advisory Board.
Rick and Dr. Plimack talk about:
* The importance of supporting bladder cancer research
* The role of BCAN's Scientific Advisory Board
* What the Bladder Cancer Think Tank is
* Resources that BCAN has for bladder cancer patients, caregivers, researchers and doctors.
Today's episode is sponored by Merck and we are grateful for their support.
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Mar 9, 2021
The Slippery Slope of Bladder Cancer and Radical Cystectomies with Dr. Ashish Kamat
In the latest "Bladder Cancer Matters" podcast, host Rick Bangs interviews Dr. Ashish Kamat about the the "slippery slope" of treating high grade bladder cancer tumors that sometimes leads to bladder removal surgery otherwise known as a radical cystectomy. Dr. Kamat is a Professor (Tenure) of Urology and Director of Urologic Oncology Fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center, and a graduate of the AUA Leadership Program. Dr. Kamat also serves on BCAN's Scientific Advisory Board.
* What does grade mean for bladder cancer tumors?
* Can low grade tumors become high grade?
* What is tumor staging?
* How can patients be confident that they are getting all of the information they need before a radical cystectomy?
* At what point would you encourage a patient to have his or her bladder removed?
Dr. Kamat can be found on Twitter at @UroDocAsh. Please also feel free to reach out to BCAN if you would like to get in touch with Dr. Kamat.
This episode is sponsored by FerGene and Merck.…
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Feb 24, 2021
What You Need to Know About COVID Vaccines and Bladder Cancer with Dr. Seth Lerner and Dr. Laila Woc-Colburn
The COVID-19 pandemic has made a difficult disease even more complicated for bladder cancer patients. Should those undergoing treatment for the disease get vaccinated before having a procedure or surgery? What about getting a vaccine either before, during or after chemotherapy?
Dr. Seth Lerner of Baylor University, a bladder cancer doctor, and Dr. Laila Woc-Colburn, an infectious disease doctor at Emory Healthcare, tackle these questions and more.
The two doctors also discuss:
* Does the vaccination reduce or completely eliminate one's risk of contracting the virus?
* Is one type of vaccine better?
* How can patients minimize the risk of a COVID vaccination interfering with their bladder cancer treatment?
* How should patients time their vaccination with their treatment schedules?
* Are there COVID vaccine side effects that are similar to bladder cancer treatment side effects?
* Can BCG reduce the risk of getting COVID?
This podcast episode was brought to you by FerGen…
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Feb 16, 2021
Part 2: Why Bladder Cancer Patients May Need an Oncology Social Worker with Dr. Heather Goltz
In Episode 2 of the "Bladder Cancer Matters" podcast, host Rick Bangs interviews Dr. Heather Honoré Goltz in Part 2 of a two-part episode. Rick and Dr. Goltz discuss what oncology social work is and how it might be helpful to bladder cancer patients. Topics covered in the podcast include:
* How to find an oncology social worker to work with
* Benefits for bladder cancer patients of working with an oncology social worker
* When in your cancer journey to start working with this person
This episode is sponsored by FerGene, a new gene therapy company dedicated to creating and delivering innovative solutions for bladder cancer.
The Twitter account of the University of Houston Downtown is @UHDowntown.
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Feb 10, 2021
Is Working with an Oncology Social Worker Right for Bladder Cancer Patients with Dr. Heather Goltz
In Episode 2 of the "Bladder Cancer Matters" podcast, host Rick Bangs interviews Dr. Heather Honoré Goltz in Part 1 of a two-part episode. Rick and Dr. Goltz discuss what oncology social work is and how it might be helpful to bladder cancer patients. Topics covered in the podcast also include:
* What oncology social work is and how it is different than other types of social work
* How an oncology social worker helpful in bladder cancer
This episode is sponsored by FerGene, a new gene therapy company dedicated to creating and delivering innovative solutions for bladder cancer.
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Jan 21, 2021
What's Up with Bladder Cancer and BCG with Dr. Ashish Kamat
Read the podcast transcript here.
In the inaugural "Bladder Cancer Matters" podcast, host Rick Bangs interviews Dr. Ashish Kamat about the state of BCG in bladder cancer treatment. Dr. Kamat is a Professor (Tenure) of Urology and Director of Urologic Oncology Fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center, and a graduate of the AUA Leadership Program. Dr. Kamat also serves on BCAN's Scientific Advisory Board.
In this episode, Rick and Dr. Kamat discuss what BCG is, how it is used, why there is a BCG shortage and what some therapeutic alternatives are.
Dr. Kamat can be found on Twitter at @UroDocAsh.
This episode is sponsored by FerGene, a new gene therapy company dedicated to creating and delivering innovative solutions for bladder cancer.
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