Bladder Cancer Matters

In this eye-opening episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, brought to you by the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, host Rick Bangs sits down with Todd Davey of Ferring Pharmaceuticals to pull back the curtain on something most patients never hear about: market access. What actually happens between a breakthrough therapy and the moment a patient can affordably receive it? Todd walks listeners through the strategy, value demonstration, and launch planning that determine whether innovative bladder cancer treatments—like ADSTILADRIN®—are covered by insurance and accessible without crushing out-of-pocket costs. It's a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how science, economics, and patient advocacy intersect—and why getting this right can mean fewer barriers, less financial stress, and more options for families facing bladder cancer. If you've ever wondered how new treatments move from the lab to real life, this episode will give you clarity—and a new appreciation for the complex work that helps turn innovation into access.

For women facing radical cystectomy, removing the bladder doesn't always have to mean removing reproductive organs as well. In this episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs talks with Cleveland Clinic urologic oncologist Dr. Rebecca Campbell about organ-sparing radical cystectomy and how, for carefully selected patients, surgeons may be able to preserve the vagina, uterus and ovaries while still prioritizing effective cancer treatment. Dr. Campbell explains who may be a candidate, how organ sparing can help protect sexual function, hormonal health, continence and overall quality of life and why women should feel empowered to ask their surgeon about their options—or seek a second opinion if those options aren't discussed. It's an important conversation about looking beyond bladder removal to the life a patient wants to live after treatment.

In this fascinating episode of Bladder Cancer Matters, host Rick Bangs sits down with renowned bladder cancer expert Dr. Robert Svatek to discuss how the field has been transformed over the past 15 years—and where it's headed next. Dr. Svatek reflects on his journey from academic surgeon and researcher to Vice President of Clinical Development at CG Oncology, sharing behind-the-scenes insights into clinical trials, emerging immunotherapies and the collaborative effort required to bring promising new treatments from the laboratory to patients. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, advocate or healthcare professional, this conversation offers an inspiring look at the remarkable progress being made in bladder cancer research while acknowledging the challenges that remain. You'll also hear how patient participation in clinical trials is driving innovation and why experts are more optimistic than ever about the future of bladder cancer care.

Whether you're facing bladder removal surgery or supporting someone who is, choosing the right urinary diversion can feel overwhelming. In this episode, urologic oncologist Dr. Christine Ibilibor separates fact from fiction, explains the pros and cons of the different diversion options and addresses the unique concerns women often face, from body image and intimacy to recovery and quality of life. Packed with practical advice and reassuring insights, this conversation will help patients feel more informed and more confident when making one of the most important decisions in bladder cancer care.

If you're facing bladder removal surgery, choosing a urinary diversion may be one of the most important decisions you'll ever make—and one of the hardest to understand. In this episode, reconstructive urologist Dr. Divya Ajay shares how real patient experiences inspired a first-of-its-kind decision tool that helps people compare diversion options, set realistic expectations and better prepare for life after surgery. From intimacy and travel to recovery, aging and day-to-day living, this conversation offers practical guidance that can help patients feel more informed, more confident and more in control of their treatment journey. View and download a urinary diversion decision guide.