Cancer

Through innovative research on cancer treatment and prevention, members of the UBC Faculty of Medicine are attacking cancer on several fronts. Building from a rich tradition of discovery science, our people and partners are taking hold of new technologies and are exploring new areas of research to advance knowledge and improve care.

Spotlight

BC Cancer and UBC roll out the fastest PET/CT scanner in Canada

The next-generation scanner will improve diagnostic imaging and accelerate research on novel imaging agents and cancer treatments.

Exercise improves survival for colon cancer patients

Findings from a landmark 17-year study suggest a structured exercise program reduces the risk of disease recurrence and new primary cancers.

Colorectal cancer leaves lasting toll on women’s sexual health

UBC-led study finds women with colorectal cancer are more likely to sexual health challenges, even long after treatment as ended.

From cancer therapies to a new generation of vaccines—how UBC professor Pieter Cullis transformed drug delivery

Nearly 50 years of research by Dr. Pieter Cullis and his collaborators is powering a medical revolution.

Certain bacteria in breast tumour environments may fuel cancer spread

UBC Medicine research is reshaping our understanding of how cancer spreads and could lead to new ways to slow or stop metastasis.

Researchers develop new way to match young cancer patients with the right drugs

In a new study, a pan-Canadian team led by UBC researchers shows how chicken eggs and protein analysis can find personalized treatments for young cancer patients.

New test identifies high-risk childhood brain tumours, improving treatment decisions

The test could transform the way the most common type of malignant tumour in children is treated globally.

Ultrasound improves cancer detection in women with dense breasts

A new UBC study highlights how ultrasound can detect cancers in dense breast tissue that would otherwise be missed by standard mammography.

Cancer-like mutations in healthy cells point to origins of breast cancer

Understanding how cancer-causing mutations arise could lead to new methods for early detection, prevention and treatment.

Drug discovery could prevent spread of childhood bone cancer

By stopping cancer from spreading to the lungs, the drug could give children and teens battling osteosarcoma a greater chance of survival.