Alberta cancer research gets $35 million boost for clinical trials across three cities
The funding is among the largest investments in a five-year clinical trial window for the Alberta Cancer Foundation, boosting immunotherapy research in Calgary and Edmonton.
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A $35-million infusion into cancer research is being channeled into clinical trials across Alberta, with a major focus on immunotherapy research in Calgary and Edmonton.
The funding represents one of the largest commitments into a five-year clinical trial window in the Alberta Cancer Foundation's history. It will accelerate immunotherapy trials at Edmonton's Cross Cancer Centre and at Calgary's Riddell Centre for Cancer Immunotherapy and Owerko Family Centre for Clinical Trials. Lethbridge will host research on how advanced MRI imaging can reduce radiation sessions.
Wendy Beauchesne, CEO of the Alberta Cancer Foundation, said clinical trials are crucial. "They are the bridge between the lab discovery and a living patient. We are living through one of the most hopeful, transformative eras in cancer care."
The foundation's funding helps provide Albertans access to more than 200 active cancer clinical trials at any given time. Calgary has recently emerged as a leader in early-phase trials, attracting more than 15 first-in-human studies that could benefit over 100 local cancer patients.
Dr. Vishal Nivani, an oncology researcher, noted that previously, families would often have to leave the city or province for experimental therapies. "This places an immense physical strain on a patient that's already battling a devastating diagnosis," he said. "We refuse to accept this as a reality for all Albertans."
The largest donor to the initiative is Calgary's Owerko family, which has provided $30 million to the cancer fight overall and $8 million to the clinical trial cause.
