UNC Urology is proud to announce the distinguished participation of Dr. Marc Bjurlin, Associate Professor of Urology, at the 8th Annual European Conference on Tobacco Control (ECTC) hosted by the European Network for Smoking and Tobacco Prevention (ENSP). This year, the conference convened in the picturesque city of Florence, Italy, bringing together experts from around the globe to discuss critical issues in tobacco control.
About the Event: ECTC 2023
The ECTC is a significant platform for dialogue and collaboration in the realm of tobacco control. This year, Dr. Bjurlin was honored with an invitation to lead a plenary lecture focusing on the intricate relationship between smoking and bladder cancer.
Dr. Bjurlin’s involvement went beyond delivering a lecture. He helped curate a comprehensive session, featuring an international lineup of speakers. This esteemed panel included Dr. Jose Nolazco (Harvard University), Dr. Richard Matulewicz (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center), Dr. Krzysztof Przewozniak (Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology), Prof. Francesco Soria (University of Torino School of Medicine), and Mrs. Jacqueline Daly (Cancer Patients Europe).
The focal point of Dr. Bjurlin’s talk was “E-cigarettes use and the risk of bladder cancer.” Drawing from his extensive academic research and clinical experience, he provided a nuanced perspective on the alarming rise in e-cigarette use in the United States. His talk delved into the toxic and carcinogenic compounds associated with e-cigarette use, their links to bladder cancer, and DNA changes that have been observed in mice models exposed to e-cigarette vapor.
UNC Urology congratulates Dr. Bjurlin on his impactful participation at the ECTC 2023, representing our commitment to advancing knowledge and improving patient outcomes in urologic oncology on a global scale.
“The thought leaders in this transdisciplinary meeting, including health care professionals, scientists, researchers, patient advocates, and policy makers are leading the future of tobacco control, with our focus on smoking cessation for bladder cancer survivors.”
Marc Bjurlin, DO, MSc, FACOS
Director of Clinical Trials
Associate Professor of Urology
Dr. Bjurlin’s Research on E-cigarette Impacts
Dr. Bjurlin’s research on electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use addresses a pressing public health crisis. The exponential increase in e-cigarette usage in recent years has raised significant concerns. Dr. Bjurlin’s work, funded by a “Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Developmental Grant” and a “NC TraCS Innovation Award,” sheds light on the link between e-cigarette use and the risk of bladder cancer. His findings highlight the presence of carcinogenic compounds in the urine of e-cigarette users, suggesting a potential mutagenic consequence similar to conventional cigarette smoking.
About The ENSP
The European Network for Smoking and Tobacco Prevention (ENSP) serves as a vital catalyst for coordinated action in tobacco control across Europe. Founded in 1997, ENSP strives to eliminate health inequalities caused by tobacco-related diseases and create a smoke-free future for European citizens.