Inaugural Canadian Cancer Research Conference draws top cancer experts to Toronto

Significant advancements in cancer research from Canadian scientists were showcased at the first Canadian Cancer Research Conference. Held in Toronto from November 27 to 30, 2011, the conference provided an opportunity for scientists to exchange ideas and be exposed to new research on topics ranging from cancer prevention and early detection, to new treatment therapies and patient care, as well as survivorship and end-of-life care.

“Cancer is, in fact, not a single disease but more than 200 complex diseases. While we have effective therapies and prevention or screening strategies for many cancers, there is still much more to be learned and translated into practice to reduce the burden of cancer on Canadians,” says Dr. Elizabeth Eisenhauer, Chair of the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer’s Research Advisory Group and co-Chair of the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance.

The conference’s scientific program had more than 35 sessions, including plenary and symposium sessions, poster sessions and other ancillary meetings. The conference also served to nurture the next generation of cancer researchers by highlighting available research training opportunities. The full scientific program is available upon request.

“With a wealth of cancer research underway at universities, hospitals and cancer agencies across Canada, and as research becomes more complex and specialized, this conference offers an opportunity for Canadian scientists to share, discuss and explore opportunities for collaboration to accelerate our progress. This bridge building is a critical component of the research process,” says Mario Chevrette, PhD, President of the Cancer Research Society Board of Directors, and co-Chair of the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance.

Kicking off the first day of the conference was the Community Forum. It provided a unique opportunity for volunteers, donors, staff and the public to meet world-renowned cancer researchers and learn more about the accomplishments of Canadian cancer research efforts.

The Canadian Cancer Research Conference is a collaborative effort on the part of the 31 member organizations of the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance.

About the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance (CCRA)

The CCRA is an alliance of cancer research funding organizations and other affiliated partners, including the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, to: identify, develop, and initiate large transformative cancer research initiatives; coordinate cancer research at a pan-Canadian level; document cancer research activity in Canada (i.e., the Canadian Cancer Research Survey); and act as the Partnership’s Research Advisory Group.

The CCRA is currently overseeing the implementation of the pan-Canadian cancer research strategy released in May 2010. The pan-Canadian cancer research strategy provides a framework to guide cancer research investment in Canada and a vision for Canadian cancer research achievements over the next five years. This process has, and will continue to involve consultations with researchers, research funders, decision-makers, cancer patients, their families, and other members of the public.

About the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer

The Partnership is an organization funded by the federal government to accelerate action on cancer control for all Canadians. Bringing together cancer experts, government representatives, patient and survivor groups, including the Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Cancer Action Network to implement the first pan-Canadian cancer control strategy, the vision is to be a driving force to achieve a focused approach that will help prevent cancer, enhance the quality of life of those affected by cancer, lessen the likelihood of dying from cancer, and increase the efficiency of cancer control in Canada.  For more information, visit www.partnershipagainstcancer.ca.  The Partnership is also the driving force behind cancerview.ca, an online community linking Canadians to cancer information, services and resources.