Rates of multiple sclerosis (MS) are typically higher in northern countries, where sunlight is in shorter supply. These rates have led researchers to consider increased sunlight exposure—particularly in the form of ultraviolet or UV-B rays—as a possible prevention for this autoimmune disease. But the specifics of this relationship remain poorly understood. A new research study by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute scientist Dr. Helen Tremlett provides more details about the sunlight-MS connection.
It is a condition that affects one in 10 girls and women during their reproductive years, and VCH Research Institute researcher Dr. Michael Anglesio and colleagues have uncovered new clues about how it affects cells in the body.
Endometriosis is the development of uterine-lining tissues outside the uterus. It is often associated with pelvic pain, heavier periods and sometimes infertility. It is a benign condition and exceptionally common, but can also be a precursor to the development of cancer in rare cases.
Up to now, clinical trials and research studies have—to a great extent—relied on male participants. However, a first-of-its-kind study led by VCH Research Institute researchers Dr. Teresa Liu-Ambrose and Cindy Barha shows how important insights into treatments are lost when female subjects are bypassed.
Hosted by the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI), the In It Together Series is an informative lunch and learn supporting research staff at VCH. The series offers opportunities to network with peers and staff at VCHRI and to learn about evolving best practices in health research.
Date and time: January 31, 2019 - 12:00pm-1:00pm
Location: Lecture Hall, Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, 818 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common heart rhythm disorder in Canada, and if left untreated can result in strokes and even death. With AF, the heart does not beat in a strong, regular contraction—it “quivers” in a rapid and irregular manner. AF is a costly disease to treat, with many patients requiring expensive medicine, acute care visits, and interventions.
Patients can now know whether they have treatment-resistant prostate cancer from a simple blood test—giving clinicians additional time to administer alternative therapies. The promising finding is a result of a new study co-authored by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI) researcher Dr. Alexander Wyatt.
“This research lets us know if a patient is unlikely to respond to some of the most common treatments for prostate cancer.”
With sexual harassment and bullying dominating headlines, many people may be wondering what interventions the public would support to prevent immoral and harmful behaviours. Answering this question is the subject of a recent study led by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Peter Reiner.
BC has the highest rate of caesarean births in Canada. Here, 34 per cent of babies are delivered by C-section versus the national average of 28 per cent. To put those percentages in context, the World Health Organization says an ideal C-section rate is between 10 and 15 per cent. When it comes to repeat C-sections, BC rates are also very high, and rising, even though vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) is considered safer for both mom and baby in low-risk pregnancies.
Q: Is there a ground zero for burns in the house?
A: Without a doubt, it’s the kitchen. Most household burns happen here. The majority are minor blister burns but we also see serious scald burns from hot liquids and oils. These deep burns require skin grafts and a long, painful healing process.
