Editor’s Note: In recent years, breakthroughs in basic research and clinical trials, particularly in combined targeted and immunotherapy strategies and the development of domestically produced novel drugs, have significantly advanced clinical practices in uro-oncology. However, transforming cutting-edge research into practical clinical applications and sharing Chinese expertise with international patients remains an ongoing challenge. The 14th Shanghai Genitourinary Oncology Academic Conference and Annual Meeting of Chinese Anti-Cancer Association—Genitourinary Oncology Committee (CACA-GO) were held in Shanghai from December 6 to 8. Following the event, Urology Frontier invited Professor Dingwei Ye, the conference chair and leading expert from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, to share the highlights and experiences of this impactful event.

1. Highlights of the Conference and Latest Advances in Clinical Research

Urology Frontier: This year’s conference featured a dynamic agenda, bringing together renowned experts from China and abroad to discuss the latest developments in uro-oncology. The event was broadcast live globally in English. Could you share the key highlights and the latest clinical advancements you’d like to convey to both domestic and international colleagues?

Professor Dingwei Ye: The first Shanghai Uro-Oncology Academic Conference was launched in 2011, and today, we celebrate the 14th edition. Over the years, we have emphasized strengthening international multi-center and regional collaborations, relying on data from Chinese populations to formulate localized clinical guidelines and expert consensus. Additionally, we focus on promoting Chinese innovations, driving the global adoption of novel drugs and cutting-edge technologies developed domestically.

This year’s conference upheld the theme of “learning through mutual exchange and collaboration,” uniting leading global uro-oncology experts, young scholars, and teams specializing in innovative research and translational medicine. The sharing of the latest findings and clinical experiences not only promotes academic exchanges and cooperation but also accelerates the translation of research into clinical applications. This collaborative approach across disciplines and regions inspires new research ideas and methodologies, driving progress in the field.

The conference continued to highlight the latest advancements in uro-oncology, inviting renowned experts from around the world to engage in in-depth discussions on pressing topics. This provides participants with insight into current trends and sets a clear direction for future research.

Furthermore, we organized specialized sessions on surgical innovation and multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment in uro-oncology. These included advances in minimally invasive surgery, the application of robotic-assisted systems, and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in improving patient outcomes through integrated care. The conference’s diverse content served as an excellent platform for participants to broaden their perspectives and stay updated on industry trends.

2. Establishing the Yangtze River Delta Uro-Oncology Clinical Research Collaboration Group

Urology Frontier: This year, the Yangtze River Delta Uro-Oncology Clinical Research Collaboration Group was established. What benefits and significance does this bring to clinicians and patients?

Professor Dingwei Ye: The establishment of the Yangtze River Delta Uro-Oncology Clinical Research Collaboration Group holds substantial significance for both clinicians and patients.

Firstly, it enables resource sharing. The collaboration group pools advanced equipment and rich clinical data across the region, allowing physicians to access more comprehensive information and improve diagnostic and treatment capabilities. By sharing cases, clinicians can learn from the experiences and practices of different hospitals and regions, fostering exchange and cooperation.

Secondly, it helps standardize processes and enhance treatment quality. The group organizes regular training sessions and academic lectures to provide the latest research findings and clinical guidelines. This helps clinicians stay updated on research progress and technical advancements, improving their professional skills. By establishing unified standards and protocols, the collaboration group aims to elevate the overall level of uro-oncology care in the region and reduce misdiagnosis and missed diagnoses.

In terms of clinical research, the group can initiate and drive multi-center studies, promoting the application of innovative treatments and technologies. It also supports clinicians in managing clinical research projects, particularly for rare and challenging cases. During research processes, the group provides coordination and support to ensure smooth progress.

From both patient and physician perspectives, collaboration and research enable the adoption of best practices and cutting-edge techniques, offering patients higher-quality medical services. Clinicians can also use the latest findings to develop more personalized treatment plans, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

The establishment of this collaboration group is a significant step toward enhancing uro-oncology care in the Yangtze River Delta. However, it’s essential to remember that each patient’s condition and needs are unique, and individualized diagnosis and treatment by professional clinicians remain critical.

3. Translating China’s Clinical Research into International Consensus

Urology Frontier: During the conference, you discussed the innovative journey of uro-oncology diagnosis and treatment. Based on your experience, how can Chinese clinicians ensure their research becomes part of international consensus?

Professor Dingwei Ye: Advancing innovation in uro-oncology from clinical research to international consensus requires a solid foundation of scientific studies and broad international collaboration. In recent years, with China’s rapid economic development and increasing investment in research, Chinese scholars have made significant contributions to global clinical studies, particularly in uro-oncology. However, achieving the ultimate goal of integrating Chinese findings into international standards will take sustained effort.

Firstly, it’s essential to strengthen platform development based on institutional expertise. For example, the multidisciplinary uro-oncology team at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center leverages the hospital’s specialization. Over nearly 20 years, the team has achieved notable success, with cure and survival rates for patients reaching leading domestic and internationally competitive levels. Many of the team’s findings have been incorporated into authoritative clinical guidelines.

Secondly, deepening international collaborations is crucial. Chinese researchers should actively participate in global projects and establish stable, long-term partnerships with institutions worldwide. By sharing data resources, biobanks, and the latest findings, we can collectively address major scientific and technical challenges in uro-oncology prevention and treatment.

Finally, cultivating high-caliber talent is key. Supporting the growth of young clinicians by providing learning opportunities and career development is vital for sustaining innovation and progress.

In summary, only through persistent effort and continuous learning can we narrow the gap with developed nations and, in some areas, surpass them. This transition from a follower to a leader will allow us to make a meaningful global impact in uro-oncology.

About Professor Dingwei Ye

• Vice President, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Chief Expert, Uro-Oncology MDT
• Director, Shanghai Urological Oncology Research Institute
• Director, Fudan University Prostate Cancer Research Institute
• Executive Director, Integrative Prostate Cancer Committee, Chinese Anti-Cancer Association (CACA)
• Chair, Male Genitourinary Tumor Committee, CACA-GO
• Chair, Prostate Cancer Expert Committee, Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO)
• Chair, Urology Committee, Chinese Primary Health Care Foundation
• Former Chair, Urological and Male Genitourinary Tumor Committee, CACA-GU
• Vice Chair, Oncology Group, Chinese Urological Association (CUA)
• Vice Chair, CSCO Expert Committees on Urothelial Cancer, Renal Cancer, and Immunotherapy
• Chair, Uro-Oncology Collaboration Group (UCOG), Chinese Tumor Hospitals Association
• Standing Member, CACA and CSCO
• Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Chinese Journal of Oncology
• Member, NCCN Prostate Cancer, Renal Cancer, and Bladder Cancer Asia Consensus Committees
• Former Chair, Asia-Pacific Prostate Society (APPS)
• Vice President, Asia-Pacific Society of Cryosurgery