Spotlight on Urology
Spotlight on Urology takes a look at recent activities undertaken to advance urology around the world. This week, we share news from USANZ Members who attended the UNSW Women in Surgery Symposium as well as the Annual International Bladder Cancer Group Retreat held in Houston. In addition, we provide an update on media coverage of UTIs and recognise recent achievements by USANZ Members.
UNSW Women in Surgery Sumposium
USANZ was recently invited to participate in the UNSW Women in Surgery Symposium, held on 29 August 2026. USANZ Members Danielle Delaney and Amanda Chung attended the Symposium on behalf of the Society, sharing their knowledge and practical experience with young women interested in pursuing careers in surgery.
The hands-on workshop gave participants an opportunity to try a range of surgical techniques, ask questions and learn directly from experienced clinicians.
Danielle described it as rewarding to teach such an interested and enthusiastic group, noting that participants particularly valued being able to attempt the procedures themselves and speak with experts in the field.
Thank you Danielle and Amanda for volunteering your time to engage with the next generation of surgeons!
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Media on UTIs
USANZ Vice-President Ashani Couchman was recently interviewed by Body+Soul about common myths about urinary tract infections.
The interview covered the symptoms and treatment of UTIs, whether women should urinate after sex, the potential impact of condoms and lubricants, and the demographic groups most frequently affected. Dr Couchman also discussed whether delaying urination can contribute to a UTI and other everyday habits that may increase a woman’s risk.
The interview follows a recent USANZ media release highlighting the potential consequences of regularly delaying a visit to the bathroom. In that release, USANZ Member Sandra Elmer warned that repeatedly “holding it in” for extended periods can overstretch and weaken the bladder muscle.
USANZ thanks Ashani for offering expert commentary to this important public healthcare discussion.
International Bladder Cancer Group Retreat
The annual International Bladder Cancer Group (IBCG) Retreat was held from 27-29 August 2026 in Houston. Global experts, researchers, patient advocates, and industry partners gathered to review evidence, debate clinical data, and build consensus on bladder cancer management.
USANZ was well-represented at the event, with Shomik Sengupta, Weranja Ranasinghe and Dickon Hayne in attendance. Thank you to Shomik who sent in the photograph below, taken with IBCG President Ashish Kamat.
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USANZ Members Shomik Sengupta, Dickon Hayne and Weranja Ranasinghe with Ashish Kamat
Prosthetic Surgery Distinction
USANZ congratulates Members Bill Lynch and Chris Love, who have been awarded Fellow of Genitourinary Prosthetic Surgery (FGPS) status by the Society of Urologic Prosthetic Surgeons (SUPS).
The FGPS designation recognises surgeons who demonstrate excellence in genitourinary prosthetic surgery, a commitment to lifelong learning, and adherence to the highest ethical and professional standards.
Congratulates Bill and Chris on this impressive recognition of your ongoing contributions to the field.
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