2024 Think Tank Program Schedule

August 7-9, 2024 | San Diego, CA | Omni Hotel, 675 L St.
Collaborating to Move Research Forward

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Wednesday, August 7, 2024

Thursday, August 8, 2024

Friday, August 9, 2024

Thursday Breakout Discussion Sessions Descriptions

• August 8, 2024

  1. Advancements in Understanding Bladder Cancer Through Spontaneous Animal Models

  Co-Chairs: Deborah W. Knapp DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology), Purdue University and Lauren Trepanier DVM, PhD, DACVIM (SAIM), DAVCP, University of Wisconsin-Madison

  Explore the latest advancements in understanding bladder cancer through spontaneous animal models in this informative session. Gain insights into how dogs really are man’s best friend through the canine model of bladder cancer, exploring not only its biological aspects but also the immunologic similarities to human bladder cancer. Discover the molecular traits that distinguish urothelial cell carcinoma in dogs from that in humans, shedding light on potential avenues for comparative research. Understand the connection between the canine urinary microbiome and urothelial cell carcinoma, exploring potential links and implications for both veterinary and human medicine. Uncover the role of environmental chemicals in the development of urothelial cell carcinoma, drawing parallels between human and canine cases. Delve into the innovative use of canine urinary organoids as a tool to study the biology of bladder cancer, offering unique insights into the disease. This session promises a comprehensive exploration of diverse animal models, providing valuable perspectives on bladder cancer research, from immunological similarities to unexpected models in marine life.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Rachael Thomas PhD, C.Biol. FRSB, North Carolina State University
  • Karin Allenspach Jorn, DVM, MS, PhD, DECVIM-CA, University of Georgia
  • Vanessa Hale, DVM, MAT, PhD, The Ohio State University

  2. Exploring Research Rapid Autopsy Programs in Bladder Cancer: An Innovative Approach to Data Collection – Co-Chairs: Petros Grivas, MD, PhD, University of Washington Medicine and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center; and Andrew Hsieh, MD, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

  This breakout session offers a compelling exploration of an innovative approach to data collection in bladder cancer research: the research rapid autopsy program. Join us as we discuss the essential steps involved in establishing such programs and the unique data generated by them. We’ll share data derived from rapid autopsy programs that can inform translational next steps, driving progress through clinical trials and beyond, including helping to address the crucial challenge of tumor heterogeneity across metastatic sites, among other examples. Hear firsthand from a patient advocate who will share their perspective on the meaningful contributions and enduring legacy enabled by these programs.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Felipe De Carvalho, MD, PhD, Harvard Medical School
  • Bishoy M. Faltas, MD, Weill Cornell Medical College
  • Ming Lam, PhD, University of Washington Medicine
  • Dave Wold, BCAN Patient Advocate

  3. Navigating the Emotional Landscape: Addressing Mental Health Challenges in Bladder Cancer Survivorship

  Co-Chairs: Mary Dunn, MSN, NP-C, OCN, RN, University of North Carolina and Nihal Mohamed, PhD, Mount Sinai, and Krisztina Emodi, FNP, MPH, CNS, University of California San Francisco

  Explore the emotional and psychological dimensions of survivorship care for bladder cancer as we delve into the critical issues of bladder cancer-related mental health, including anxiety and “scanxiety” associated with diagnostic and screening procedures. Discuss strategies for enhancing the overall survivorship experience, addressing long-term anxiety, and building resilience. Examine the role of healthcare providers in delivering patient-centered care that considers both the physical and mental health aspects of survivorship. Collaborate on innovative improvements to survivorship care plans, ensuring a patient-centered approach prioritizing psychological well-being. Join us in navigating the emotional landscape of bladder cancer survivorship, working together towards holistic solutions within the BCAN community.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Deane L. Wolcott, MD, FAPOS, DLFAPA, FACLP

  4. Patient Engagement in Research

  Co-Chairs: Angela B. Smith, MD, MS, University of North Carolina and John L. Gore, MD, MS, University of Washington

  In this session, we’ll explore different approaches to engaging patients in research. We’ll listen to principal investigators (PIs) who have effectively integrated patient engagement into their trials, alongside patients who have contributed to research, sharing their insights and experiences. Our discussion will encompass studies related to bladder cancer care, such as CISTO and UC-GENOME, as well as research in other areas. Additionally, we’ll examine funding opportunities where patient involvement is a crucial element, focusing on organizations like PCORI and the Department of Defense (DOD).

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Rotana Alsaggaf, PhD, MS, MD, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI)
  • Yaw Nyame, MD, MS, MBA, University of Washington
  • Lori Roscoe, PhD, BCAN Patient Advocate

  5. “Working” Smarter to Prevent Bladder Cancer: Unraveling Bladder Cancer’s Occupational and Environmental Threads

  Co-Chairs: Sunil Patel, MD, MA, Johns Hopkins Medicine and Stella Koutros, PhD, MPH, National Cancer Institute

  This immersive research discussion is dedicated to uncovering the intricate web of occupational and environmental factors that contribute to bladder cancer, especially in America’s bravest, our veterans and firefighters. We’ll start by shining a light on the critical recent issue of burn pit exposure among veterans and broaden our scope to explore a spectrum of occupational and environmental hazards for firefighters and others, including exposure to PFAS, BPA, arsenic, pesticides, and dioxins, and their potential impact on cancer development. Central to our discussion will be the need for proactive inquiry into patients’ work histories and environmental exposures, recognizing the pivotal role these factors play in cancer etiology, even among non-smokers. Explore how insights from epidemiologists provide invaluable perspectives on study design and methodology crucial for tackling these complex research questions. Let’s collaboratively generate actionable strategies for advancing research and policy initiatives, ultimately improving identifying occupational environmental risks for bladder cancer, particularly among veterans and firefighters.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Anthony M. Szema, M.D., FCCP, FACAAI, FAAAAI, FACP, ATSF, Hofstra/Northwell Health
  • Tania Carreón-Valencia, PhD, MS, CDC-NIOSH World Trade Center Health Program
  • Shane Kronstadt, MD, Urology Resident, Baylor College of Medicine
  • Stephanie Budhan, Hofstra/Northwell Health

  6. Navigating Young-Onset Bladder Cancer – From Genomics to Survivor Perspectives
  Co-Chairs: Shilpa Gupta, MD, Cleveland Clinic, and Ashish Kamat, MD, BBS, MD Anderson Cancer Center
  Engage in a research-driven discussion about the challenges of addressing young-onset bladder cancer, which is rare but becoming increasingly common. This session will examine the different approaches for management, the feasibility of surgical interventions, and the efficacy of radiation and other therapies in managing young onset bladder cancer. We’ll explore the nuances of treatment decision-making, considering the unique clinical characteristics and prognostic factors in this demographic, and hear about the genomic landscape of bladder cancer in younger patients, uncovering potential avenues for precision medicine and targeted therapies and identifying where research gaps exist. Hear from a distinguished expert from the colorectal cancer field, offering cross-disciplinary perspectives on managing young onset malignancies, and firsthand from a Patient Advocate as they share insights into the decisions faced by young onset bladder cancer survivors and perspectives on the role of screening protocols.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Benjamin Schlechter, MD, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Harvard Medical School
  • Jeffrey Damrauer, PhD, University of North Carolina
  • Matthew Milowsky, MD, FASCO, University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
  • Brent Ulbert, BCAN Patient Advocate
  • Kavitha Jain, BCAN Patient Advocate
  • Kristen Skinner, BCAN Patient Advocate

  7. Oligometastatic disease

  Co-Chairs: Armine K. Smith, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and Randy Sweis, MD, University of Chicago Medicine

  Oligometastatic urothelial cancer, characterized by limited metastases, provides an opportunity for potentially curative metastasis-directed therapy within a multidisciplinary approach. The lack of consensus on the definition of the oligometastatic state in urothelial cancer poses challenges in developing effective treatment strategies for these patients. Advancements in systemic therapy and radiation delivery offer the potential to improve local disease control and overall survival. Join for a compelling discussion that will review the existing data in this field and the knowledge gaps. Hear from experts in prostate cancer and how best to apply lessons learned to bladder cancer.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Sean Pitroda, MD, The University of Chicago
  • Phuoc Tho Tran, MD, University of Maryland
  • Terri McDermott, BCAN Patient Advocate

  8. Harnessing the Power of Artificial Intelligence in Advancing Bladder Cancer Research and Clinical Care

  Co-Chairs: Bishoy M. Faltas, MD, Weill Cornell Medical College and Yair Lotan, MD, University of Texas

  How can we smartly apply the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing bladder cancer research and care? Engage in a collaborative discussion to identify strategic applications of AI in bladder cancer research and clinical care.

  • Explore how AI can aid in early detection and diagnosis of bladder cancer.
  • Discuss the potential for AI to enhance decision-making and create personalized treatment plans.
  • Uncover the predictive capabilities of AI in anticipating disease progression and treatment outcomes.
  • Develop strategies to ensure responsible and ethical use of AI in bladder cancer care.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Rick Bangs, BCAN Patient Advocate
  • Donna Hansel, MD PhD, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
  • Joshua Levy, PhD, Dartmouth Health
  • David McConkey, PhD, Johns Hopkins Greenberg Bladder Cancer Institute

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Friday Breakout Discussion Sessions Descriptions

• August 9, 2024

  1. Exploring the Evolving Landscape of Bladder Cancer Immunotherapy: Current Advances and Future Frontiers

  Co-Chairs: Neelam Mukherjee, PhD, University of Texas Health San Antonio and Petros Grivas, MD, PhD., University of Washington Medical Center and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

  This session offers a scientific exploration into the dynamic landscape of bladder cancer immunotherapies. Serving as a bridge between fundamental principles and clinical relevance, this breakout session will provide a unique collaborative platform for translational researchers and clinicians. Join us in this impactful discussion and explore the cutting-edge innovations, therapeutic insights from other cancers, and emerging concepts that will shape the future of bladder cancer immune therapy.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • • Shilpa Gupta, MD, Cleveland Clinic
    • Madhuri Koti, DVM, MVSc, PhD, Queen’s University Cancer Research Institute
    • Shailender Bhatia, MD, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
    • Brian Rini, MD, FASCO, Vanderbilt University Medical Center

  2. Unveiling Innovations in Cognitive Resilience during Bladder Cancer Care with (P)Rehabilitation

  Co-Chairs: Sarah Psutka, MD, MSc, University of Washington Medicine and Hanna Hunter, MD, University of Washington Medical Center, and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

  Our panel of researchers delves into the intricate realm of cognitive impacts during bladder cancer care. Explore the scientific nuances behind prehabilitation and rehabilitation strategies, specifically designed to bolster cognitive resilience. Experts will not only dissect the existing knowledge on the subject but also shed light on the interplay between cognitive changes, treatment, and patient outcomes. Discover practical approaches to seamlessly integrate these strategies into the clinical care journey of patients with bladder cancer, spanning from diagnosis through non-muscle invasive, muscle invasive, to metastatic stages. This discussion will encompass multimodal interventions, addressing aspects such as physical function, strength, balance, independence, cognition, nutrition, and social support. Join us in unraveling the research-driven pathways to optimize clinical outcomes and elevate the quality of life, with a special focus on cognition during bladder cancer treatment and survivorship. Seize this opportunity to be part of a paradigm shift in bladder cancer care research.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • David Sheppard, PhD, University of Washington Medicine

  3. Excellence in Bladder Cancer in the Community: What are the key components for success?

  Co-Chairs: Suzanne B. Merrill, MD, FACS, United Urology Group and Manojkumar Bupathi, MD, MS, Rocky Mountain Cancer Center

  BCAN and the Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) launched a collaborative initiative in early 2024 to better understand who is treating bladder cancer patients in the community and what are the optimal components for the delivery of excellent care outside of an academic setting. In this session, we will explore how large urology and medical oncology group practices have created advanced bladder cancer programs and what they have found to be key clinical offerings, personnel, and collaborations necessary for success.  We will also discuss how such community and academic bladder cancer can better collaborate to enhance patient care.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • • Janet Kukreja, MD, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center
    • Gautam (Tom) Jayram, MD, Urology Associates of Tennessee
    • Craig Smith, BCAN Patient Advocate

  4. Cancer Nutrition and Microbiome Research

  Co-Chairs: Laura Bukavina, MD, MPH, MSc, University Hospitals and Amanda Nizam, MD, Cleveland Clinic

  This session will explore the critical topic of immuno-nutrition as it pertains to cancer care, with a specific focus on the interplay between the microbiome, nutrition, and immuno-oncology. We will delve into the latest evidence regarding microbial degradation of nutrients and its implications for patient health and treatment outcomes. Through both translational and clinical perspectives, we aim to provide comprehensive insights into the application of these findings in supportive oncology, enhancing our approach to patient care.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Phil Daschner, MS, National Cancer Institute
  • Arielle Elkrief, MD, FRCPC, University of Montreal
  • Leigh Frame, PhD, MHS, George Washington University

  5. Advancing Understanding and Treatment of Urethral Carcinoma

  Co-Chairs: BCAN Patient Advocate Bob Schreiber, Michael O’Donnell, MD, University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics and Adam Feldman, MD, MPH, Massachusetts General Hospital

  Join us for a dynamic, interactive session on primary urethral carcinoma, a rare yet aggressive form of the disease that has seen minimal progress in recent decades. With only a handful of patients seen annually at individual centers, we’ll pull from the collective experiences of individual centers, including first-hand patient perspectives, to provide a platform for in-depth discussions and knowledge exchange. In this session, we’ll explore urothelial and non-urothelial subtypes, building upon last year’s rare cancer session, including the development of urothelial carcinoma following intravesical treatment for NMIBC, a growing concern as more effective therapies emerge. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with experts, share insights, hear from patients, and shape the future of urethral bladder cancer research and care.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Piyush Agarwal, MD, The University of Chicago
  • Manju Aron, MD, University of Southern California

  6. Quality of Life After Trimodality Therapy

  Co-Chairs: Jason A. Efstathiou, MD, DPhil, FASTRO, FACRO, Massachusetts General Hospital and Matt Mossanen, MD, MPH, Harvard Medical School

  Explore the post-treatment landscape of bladder cancer patients in a dedicated breakout session focused on the quality of life after trimodality therapy. Trimodality therapy, comprising surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, represents a cornerstone in the management of muscle-invasive bladder cancer, yet its impact on patients’ quality of life remains a vital area of investigation. Through a combination of clinical insights, patient perspectives, and research findings, we will examine multiple aspects that impact the quality-of-life post-trimodality therapy, including long-term toxicities and recurrence management.

  Invited Speakers:

  • Kimberley Mak, MD, MPH, Boston University
  • Kriti Mittal, MD, MS, FACP, University of Massachusetts
  • Mary Beth Westerman, MD, Louisiana State University
  • Jon Treffert, BCAN Patient Advocate

  7. Between Germline and Tumor: The Aged Normal Urothelium

  Co-Chairs: Philip Abbosh, MD, PhD, Fox Chase Cancer Center and Wendy Huss, PhD, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center

  Studies focused on bladder cancer genetics have unearthed a treasure trove of genomic alterations that underlie the etiology of the disease, shed light on disease biology, and point to actionable targets. Traditionally, these studies compare tumor genome to germline genome, most often derived from peripheral blood. However, over the last decade, it has become very apparent that normal epithelial tissues such as intestinal crypts, endometrial glands, skin, and alveoli accumulate mutations as our bodies age, and often these mutations result in clonal expansion of cells that harbor changes in validated cancer driver genes. The same is true of normal urothelium. In this session, we will explore this phenomenon: how it may cause or prevent cancer, how it may affect cancer biology, if it is targetable, and how it may confound biomarker studies aimed at the quantification of residual disease.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • • Josh Linscott, MD, Moffit Cancer Center

  • • Michael M. Shen, PhD, Columbia University

  8. Emerging/Next Generation Imaging Technologies for Bladder Cancer

  Co-Chair: Omar Mian, MD, PhD, Cleveland Clinic

  This session will offer an examination of the latest advancements in imaging technologies for bladder cancer, with a specific focus on emerging and next-generation approaches. We will discuss cutting-edge techniques and methodologies, including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) radiomics. The objectives of the session will be to learn about the utility of advanced MRI techniques and the VI-RADS system in clinical decision-making. We’ll examine the latest research and advancements in PET radiotracer development, particularly focusing on established targets (e.g., Trop2, Nectin4) and promising biomarkers in bladder cancer. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the implications of these advancements for both diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring. Join us for a robust discussion about the future of bladder cancer imaging, where innovation and technology converge to revolutionize patient care.

  Invited Discussion Leaders:

  • Manjiri Dighe, MD, University of Washington Medical Center
  • Alvin Goh, MD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
  • Gopa Iyer, MD, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

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