Cervical Cancer in Canada: Advancing, Prevention, Detection, and Treatment.
Cervical cancer remains a significant health concern in Canada, despite being preventable through vaccination and early detection. Efforts to improve access to care and leverage innovative treatments are critical to reducing its impact, particularly in underserved populations.
In Manitoba, this research encompasses various initiatives aimed at prevention, early detection, and treatment. A significant focus has been on the implementation and impact of the HPV vaccine, such as Gardasil, which protects against the human papillomavirus types most commonly associated with cervical cancer. Studies have demonstrated that widespread vaccination can substantially reduce the incidence of cervical cancer. In addition to vaccination efforts, the research includes the development of therapeutic vaccines targeting existing HPV infections and associated malignancies. These therapeutic vaccines aim to elicit immune responses against established HPV infections and HPV-induced cancers, offering potential treatment options beyond preventive measures.
Vaccination programs in Canada have demonstrated success, but equitable access remains a challenge, particularly in rural and Indigenous communities. Expanding education and outreach about HPV vaccination is essential to eliminating cervical cancer nationwide. In Manitoba, research is underway to develop ultrasound-based software tools that improve the accuracy of applicator placement. These tools aim to make real-time adjustments possible, reducing costs and increasing accessibility in resource-constrained settings.
Furthermore, Manitoba’s research community is engaged in understanding the pathogenesis of HPV and its role in cervical cancer development. This includes studying the mechanisms by which HPV contributes to cancer progression and exploring strategies to enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments.
Overall, Manitoba’s multifaceted approach to cervical cancer research aims to reduce the disease’s impact through prevention, innovative treatments, and a deeper understanding of its underlying causes.
By prioritizing prevention, equitable access to screening, and innovative technologies, Canada can lead the way in reducing cervical cancer incidence and improving outcomes for women across the country.
In 2023-2024, Research Manitoba provided funding to support multiple Cancer researchers, including the following projects:
| Project Title | Primary Investigator | Institution | Grant Program |
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Development of automated tools for the enhancement and aided interpretation of gynecologic brachytherapy ultrasound images |
Jessica Rodgers | University of Manitoba | New Investigator Operating Grant |
| Project Summary: This research aims to improve gynecologic cancer treatment in Canada by developing software tools that use ultrasound to precisely track applicator placement during brachytherapy. Ultrasound is a low-cost, accessible tool in Canada, but its effectiveness is limited by image complexities. The project focuses on creating software that can automatically identify applicator positions and combine ultrasound views to recover missing information, enabling real-time adjustments. This innovation has the potential to enhance treatment accuracy, improve patient outcomes, and increase access to high-quality care in Canada and worldwide. | |||
| Pre-Clinical Testing of Novel Combinations of Natural Anti-Cancer and Anti-Metastatic Proteins | Mark Williams | Immunofyx | Strategic Partnership Grant |
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Project Summary:This research focuses on developing and testing novel protein-based therapies to combat cancer and metastasis, the leading cause of death in solid tumor patients. Cancer exploits natural processes like angiogenesis and wound healing to grow and spread. ImmunoFyx is leveraging proteins that naturally regulate these processes to create potential anti-cancer and anti-metastatic drugs, addressing a critical gap in oncology treatment. |
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Cervical Cancer Awarness Month , is observed in January, and aims to raise awareness about Cervical Cancer, it’s prevention, and early detection. In line with this awareness Research Manitoba is proud to highlight the work of Canadian researchers who are advancing cervical cancer prevention and treatment.