A pulsed laser therapy approach designed by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Mads Daugaard and his team has shown promise as a first step to cancer cell destruction before patients undergo immunotherapy to boost their immune system’s defences against the cancer.

Menopause is a natural part of aging that marks the end of ovulation. While menopause is a universal experience shared by everyone with ovaries, it comes with a variety of experiences that affect each person differently. Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Lori Brotto explains the impact of hormone decline through the menopause transition on sleep, sex and mental health, and shares approaches to advocate for care during this transitional period of life.

Why older adults value physical activity might be as important as interventions designed to get them moving, according to the findings of Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Dawn Mackey. Her study, published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, reveals that a myriad of social, psychological and physical goals inspired older adults to engage in fitness, largely to maintain or improve their quality of life and independence. 

Researchers have confirmed that artificial intelligence (AI) software has the potential to enhance heart failure diagnostics. The study, led by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Christina Luong, shows that the machine learning tool could be safely used to improve the timeliness of heart failure diagnosis and treatment. 

Diana Ljuljovic was surprised by sudden weight gain that started in her mid-40s. She consulted her family doctor, who assured her that she was still within a healthy range. However, Diana’s weight struggles continued into her 50s, leaving the registered massage therapist wondering whether this was linked to age-related hormonal changes and what was to come.  

We are excited to announce the establishment of the Indigenous Health Research Unit at Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI), a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing Indigenous health research, fostering collaboration as well as improving health outcomes for Indigenous communities. This new unit will be promoting Indigenous health equity, cultural safety and self-determination through community-driven research initiatives and meaningful partnerships.

Remote medicine is entering into the realm of human-enhancing applications that can enable experts to provide patient care from afar. A pilot study led by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI) researcher Dr. Tim Salcudean is the first to record volunteers’ ability to follow the virtual guidance of specialists to complete tasks using an ultrasound-like device.