Cancer Care

Research Domain: Cancer Care

Cancer Care research focuses on improving the full spectrum of care for people affected by cancer: from prevention and early detection to treatment, recovery, and survivorship. Our researchers are advancing patient-centered approaches to care, including innovations in community oncology, supportive care, and outcomes that matter to patients and families. This work informs clinical practice, enhances quality of life, and helps shape the future of cancer care.

We are also actively involved in clinical trials that test promising new cancer treatments and approaches.

Explore some of our ongoing Oncology Clinical Trials.

Project examples

Evaluating the potential for multi-cancer early detection tests for screening in Canada using decision modeling

Date: 2024-2027
Researcher(s): Talía Malagón (Principal Investigator)
Funding source(s): Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)

Usage of simulation modelling to assess the potential impact of multi-cancer early detection blood tests in Canada, based on data from a large UK trial. By adapting existing models to the Canadian context, the study aims to inform whether implementing such screening programs would be feasible, effective, and beneficial for public health.

Improving symptom management among patients with lung cancer: Real-world implementation of Electronic Patient-Reported Outcome Measures and self-management in a community-based cancer centre

Date: 2024-2025
Researcher(s): Sylvie Lambert (Principal Investigator)
Funding source(s): Pfizer on behalf of Lung Cancer Canada, Lung Health Foundation, and Quebec Lung Association

Improve care for patients with advanced lung cancer by integrating a digital tool, e-IMPAQc-Lung, into clinical practice to monitor and manage symptoms. By enhancing communication and access to self-management resources, the study supports more timely care, better symptom control, and improved quality of life for patients and their families.

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SMART design to optimize delivery of TEMPO - a Tailored, wEb-based psychosocial and physical activity self-Management PrOgram for men with prostate cancer and their caregivers

Date: 2023-2028
Researcher(s): Sylvie Lambert (Principal Investigator)
Funding source(s): Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)

This project evaluates TEMPO, a unique self-guided online program designed to support both men with prostate cancer and their family caregivers through psychosocial coping strategies and home-based physical activity. The study aims to assess TEMPO’s impact on mental and physical health, communication, and quality of life, while also exploring its cost-effectiveness and potential for broader use without relying on healthcare professionals.

Impact of levodopa-induced dyskinesia on the physical and social participation of patients with advanced Parkinson's disease and their caregiver: digital phenotyping study

Date: 2023-2028
Researcher(s): Sylvie Lambert (Co-Investigator)
Funding source(s): Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)

The impact of dyskinesia (an involuntary movement side effect of long-term Parkinson’s disease (PD) treatment) on the daily lives and social participation of both patients and their spouses. By combining clinical evaluations with sensor-based mobility tracking in patient-spouse pairs, the study aims to identify when dyskinesia becomes troublesome and refine clinical tools to improve its detection.

Interactions between human papillomavirus infections, bacterial vaginosis, and genital microbiomes of sex partners

Date: 2023-2026
Researcher(s): Talía Malagón (Principal Investigator)
Funding source(s): Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)

How the vaginal and penile microbiomes interact in sexual partners and influence the transmission and clearance of human papillomavirus (HPV). By analyzing samples from the HITCH cohort, the study aims to identify specific bacteria linked to HPV risk and bacterial vaginosis, with the goal of informing new strategies to prevent and manage these infections.

The impact of the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device on breast cancer risk

Date: 2024-2025
Researcher(s): Anita Koushik
Funding source(s): Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)

A new study aims to better understand how hormonal IUDs and oral contraceptives (OCs) influence breast cancer risk, helping women make informed contraception choices. Past research on hormonal IUDs and breast cancer risk has been inconsistent, often comparing IUD users to non-users without fully considering the impact of prior OC use, a known risk factor. This study will address this gap by directly comparing hormonal IUD users to OC users, accounting for previous OC use and other important factors. Using advanced methods and large UK health databases, this research will provide precise and meaningful insights into breast cancer risk. The findings could improve healthcare recommendations and empower women worldwide with safer, evidence-based options for contraception.

The right level of support, at the right time, to the right person: Implementation of stepped care to increase access to rehabilitation support for cancer survivors post-radiation for a head and neck cancer

Date: 2024-2026
Researcher(s): Sylvie Lambert (Principal Investigator)
Funding source(s): Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé – Oncopole Priorité Patient

This project aims to finalise the development of a stepped-care, interdisciplinary rehabilitation program for Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) survivors following radiotherapy. While advances in diagnosis and treatment have improved survival rates, many survivors experience long-term physical and psychological side effects—such as stiffness in the mouth, neck, and shoulders, and anxiety—which can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.

The program brings together physiotherapy, speech therapy, and psychological strategies to support survivors’ recovery. Given limited clinical resources, the stepped-care model is designed to deliver the right level of support to each individual—directing specialist care to those with the greatest need, while offering scalable alternatives (such as digital tools or guided self-management) for others.

The current phase of the study focuses on evaluating the program’s feasibility, acceptability, and fidelity in real-world settings. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all HNC survivors receive timely, effective support tailored to their recovery needs.