Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Canada, and its impact on the brain also doubles the risk of developing dementia. However, according to the findings of a study led by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Teresa Liu-Ambrose, exercise can induce clinically important improvements in cognitive function among older adults with chronic stroke.

An innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) technology is aiding clinicians in identifying and classifying polyps and adenomas that could lead to colorectal cancer, according to the findings of Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Michael Byrne. 

As the weather heats up, so too do the damaging effects of the sun’s rays. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month — a time to check in on your skin health and protect you and your family from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Tim Lee sheds light on who is at greater risk of developing skin cancer, also called melanoma, as well as the latest screening approaches.

Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI) hosted a special anniversary event on May 9, bringing together the research community to celebrate 20 years of research excellence. Over 300 passionate researchers, clinicians, trainees, staff, community partners and research collaborators gathered to commemorate notable achievements in integrating research innovation and health care at VCH.

Taking innovative research from concept to application is critical for improving health care systems and the well-being of patients. VCHRI is proud to support investigators and their groundbreaking health research with the Innovation and Translational Research Awards. This year’s recipients are using new techniques and emerging technologies to advance patient outcomes and enhance patient-practitioner connectedness in the era of COVID-19. 

The 2023 Innovation and Translational Research Award recipients are: