What’s new at Urology on the Beach 2026

In this video, Bruno Nahar, MD, an associate professor of urologic oncology and the Eric and Elizabeth Feder Endowed Chair in Urologic Oncology Research at Desai Sethi Urology Institute in Miami, Florida, highlights several ways the 2026 Urology on the Beach program is evolving to distinguish itself from prior years, with a strong emphasis on innovation, discussion, and breadth.

One of the most notable changes is a new thematic structure within urologic oncology. Rather than organizing sessions strictly by cancer type, the program now centers on cross-cutting themes such as biomarkers, personalized medicine, and how these tools can be applied across prostate, bladder, and kidney cancers. This approach reflects a more integrated understanding of genitourinary malignancies and how shared advances can inform care across diseases.

The meeting also expands its focus on controversial and rapidly evolving topics. Sessions will address issues such as focal therapy vs surgery in prostate cancer, advances in bladder cancer treatment including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and decision-making for small renal masses. In prostate cancer specifically, Nahar notes that improved understanding of disease biology has shifted practice away from one-size-fits-all treatment. Attendees can expect in-depth discussions on patient selection for focal therapy, appropriate surveillance strategies, long-term cancer control, and functional outcomes, helping clinicians navigate an increasingly nuanced treatment landscape.

Beyond oncology, the program continues to grow its “future of urology” sessions, which explore emerging technologies and artificial intelligence, particularly how AI is already influencing imaging interpretation and patient care. The meeting also features its third annual Rising Star session, giving residents and fellows from multiple institutions a national platform to present research, innovative ideas, and unique cases while interacting directly with leaders in the field.

A major addition this year is the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award, to be presented to Ian Thompson Jr, MD, for his profound contributions to urology and urologic oncology. Finally, Nahar emphasizes the meeting’s intimate, collegial atmosphere and comprehensive scope, covering all urology subspecialties so attendees leave broadly up to date, engaged, and energized.