Reflecting on a year of growth and new horizons

As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect with immense pride and gratitude on a remarkable year of research achievements. The Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI) has welcomed new leadership and visionary strategies, further solidifying our standing as one of Canada’s leading research institutions. Together, we have built upon our legacy as the top-funded research hospital in Western Canada. 

This year has been marked by significant initiatives, breakthrough discoveries and a strengthened commitment to advancing health outcomes through cutting-edge research. A notable milestone is the establishment of the M. H. Mohseni Institute of Urologic Sciences: a promise of transformation in diagnosis, treatment and prevention of urologic diseases.

This year also saw the launch of our Indigenous Health Research Unit, VCHRI Health Equity Research Program and the VCH-VCHRI AI Hub. These critical initiatives underscore our focus on addressing Indigenous health and wellness, global health inequities and integrating AI advancements into health care. Each of these programs emphasizes our mission to translate research into real-world improvements that benefit all Canadians, especially British Columbians. Additionally, the renovations of the Vancouver General Hospital Leukemia Bone Marrow Transplant Phase 1 Research Unit are underway, with an upgraded facility set to open in spring 2025. This development represents a part of the strategic plan to bolster our capacity for clinical trials and first-in-human research, strengthening the innovation pipeline at Vancouver Coastal Health.

VCHRI researchers have been at the forefront of several groundbreaking advancements. Our researchers have been instrumental in developing a roadmap for individualized care in malignant prostate cancer, helping personalize treatments for those most in need. Telemonitoring blood pressure technology has resulted in meaningful reductions in hypertension, significantly improving patient outcomes across the province. Breakthroughs in machine learning for handheld cardiac ultrasounds are transforming the way we deliver cardiac care, providing faster and more accurate diagnoses. 

Our role as a leader in health innovation was further solidified by the discovery of high-risk forms of endometrial cancer through AI, a breakthrough that demonstrates the power of technology to revolutionize how we approach disease prevention and treatment. We have expanded the reach of expert care to rural and remote communities through teleoperated ultrasounds, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of better health outcomes. Our researchers have also applied advanced science in the field of health outcomes, prompting calls for new ways to reduce respiratory complications from wildfires.

Research projects at VCHRI have also demonstrated a commitment to community well-being. Dermatologists shared evidence to debunk sunscreen misinformation circulating online, helping to promote sun safety and prevent skin cancer. Brain health researchers spearheaded a community-based project aimed at improving the diagnosis of brain injury in survivors of intimate partner violence and exploring possible connections to Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Additionally, a photo exhibit based on participant-led studies explored the context of substance use, homelessness and resiliencies among 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in Vancouver. 

The resilience and strength of our research community lie in our adaptability, innovation and collaboration toward a shared purpose: enhancing the health and well-being for all. We remain dedicated to advancing health equity, expanding partnerships, and exploring new frontiers in research which directly impact care.

As we look ahead to 2025, we are energized by the opportunities to further VCHRI’s leadership in health research and to forge new pathways in discovery and innovation. From harnessing data and integrating AI to addressing disparities with community-focused programs, we aim to create a lasting, positive impact.

We wish to extend our deepest gratitude to each of you: our researchers, clinicians, nurses, allied health professionals, support staff, community members, trainees, partners, administrators, patients, volunteers and donors. Your unwavering commitment and partnership are the heart of our success. Your kindness, compassion, and collegiality define the spirit of VCHRI.

May this holiday season bring you and your family peace, joy, love and renewed inspiration as we step into 2025. We look forward to continuing our work, together!