Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an infection of the respiratory system caused by the influenza virus. Flu season is at its peak during the winter months between November and March, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Emily Brigham explains the importance of flu prevention and what measures individuals can take to protect themselves and others from spreading the virus. 

Everything changed for Teri Thorson in the late 1990s when a serious car crash severed vertebrae running along her neck. Thorson lost much of her hand and arm mobility, as well as her ability to walk. Then 24 years of age, Thorson went from working in software, modelling, dancing and travelling to relearning how to do basic tasks, such as making a meal or getting dressed.

“I had already achieved a lot at that point in my life, but I was young enough to still be in the throes of figuring out who I was and what direction I wanted to take,” recalls Thorson.

Researchers at the Vancouver Prostate Centre are leading a multi-site clinical trial to explore new precision treatments for patients with prostate cancer. The Genomic-biomarker-selected Umbrella Neoadjuvant Study (GUNS) trial led by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI) researchers Dr. Lucia Nappi and principal investigator Dr. Martin Gleave will use genomic markers from study participant samples to make treatment recommendations for patients.

Canada is undergoing a demographic shift, with the older adult population, specifically individuals aged 65 and above, growing at a faster rate than any other age group. This is expected to increase by 68 per cent over the next two decades. Currently, approximately 600,000 older adults in Canada, accounting for eight per cent of older adults, are living with dementia.