Bladder Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors, Early Detection and Emerging Treatments with Dr. Jonathan Wright

Bladder Cancer Awareness Month is observed each May to raise awareness of bladder cancer, including its symptoms, risk factors and the importance of early detection. In recognition of the month, Petros Grivas, MD, PhD, FASCO sits down with colleague Jonathan Wright, MD, MS, FACS, a urologic oncologist at Fred Hutch Cancer Center and the University of Washington. They discuss epidemiology, risk factors, emerging research and the critical role of multidisciplinary care and advocacy. The conversation highlights ongoing innovation and the future of bladder cancer treatment and management. Key topics: Dr. Wright's path to urology and bladder cancer research Epidemiology and risk factors, including smoking, occupational exposures and genetics The importance of early detection and delays in diagnosis, particularly among women Advances in diagnostics, including artificial intelligence and machine learning Translational research, from bench to bedside including autopsy programs and DNA sequencing Multidisciplinary clinics and collaborative care models The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) and community engagement Mentorship and leadership in academic medicine and research   Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction: The importance of bladder cancer awareness and Dr. Wright's background 03:59 – Epidemiology: How common is bladder cancer and risk factors like smoking and occupational exposures 07:08 – Genetic factors and family history considerations 09:05 – The impact of environmental and occupational exposures, including in veterans 11:14 – Challenges in diagnosis, especially in women, and signs to watch for 12:23 – Variants of bladder cancer and the importance of targeted research 13:55 – AI in pathology: Improving diagnosis and treatment prediction 17:04 – The power of translational research and the rapid autopsy program 20:21 – The significance of tissue banks and understanding tumor resistance 23:27 – Multiprofessional clinics and integrated care models 28:21 – The bladder cancer advocacy community and BCAN's role in education and support 31:36 – Community and survivor engagement in awareness events and walks 32:52 – Mentorship, leadership, and shaping the future of bladder cancer research and care