Cancer, drug and medical trials revolutionizing care for patients in Brampton and beyond

While most hospital workers in Brampton and Etobicoke tend to patients’ day-to-day needs, some are researching innovations in cancer care, pharmacy and other areas to revolutionize health care in the community.

There are currently more that 70 clinical trials being conducted under the Osler Research Institute for Health Innovation ranging from a new anti-tumour medication to studies on hospital nursing units – work that could lead to new treatments and a better understanding of gaps in the system and future community needs.

Osler, the health system in charge of Brampton Civic Hospital, the Peel Memorial Centre and Etobicoke General Hospital, has already made a breakthrough with its research on a new liquid biopsy cancer diagnosis and treatment.

And with cancer cases in Osler’s communities estimated to double by 2038 and a nine per cent increase in new oncology
consultations, Osler’s Tiziana Rivera says the institute is a pathway for “cutting-edge research right in our city, region and beyond.”

Rivera says the developments in liquid biopsy mean tumor diagnosis can be cut from weeks to days in some cases, making the process more efficient and giving speedy information to providers so they can make health care decisions that are “tailored” to the patient’s needs.

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There are also ongoing trials where patients can register to try new treatments and medications, like the TRIDENT-1 trial looking at a drug called repotrectinib as a possible treatment for advanced or metastatic solid tumors with changes in DNA.

“They really span oncology, cardiology, hepatology, infections diseases and pediatrics,” Rivera says of the 77 studies or trials currently on at Osler. She says the ORIHI brings “all researchers under one umbrella” and the work being undertaken “truly is transformative.”

“Because of proximation to the airport, we see health concerns that affect our patients more than any other health care system,” Rivera, executive vice president of quality, research and chief nursing executive, told INsauga.com.

As one of Ontario’s fastest-growing and culturally diverse cities, Brampton has seen the highest rates of diabetes across the province. And with concerns of cancer rates increasing, Rivera says she “can’t underscore the impact” ORIHI’s focus on population health, personalized health, and improving health systems has had on the community.

Osler and the ORIHI are also working with and providing support to Brampton’s incoming Toronto Metropolitan University School of Medicine and some 1,400 students in other schools.

“This is an opportunity to support them as they learn and get inspired,” Rivera said.

With developments in cancer care and plans for a new cancer centre, Rivera says research is an important part in “ensuring we are providing the best treatment and care” to its communities.

For more information or to learn about studies and trials under the ORIHI you can visit www.williamoslerhs.ca.