Local research, global impact. Learn about Canada’s international effect on cancer care.
1 min. read
When the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) first began funding research in the 1940s, 25% of Canadians diagnosed with cancer survived at least 5 years after their diagnosis. Today, 64% will survive at least 5 years.
Since we began funding research, we’ve achieved incredible breakthroughs. Read on to learn about 5 trailblazing Canadian discoveries that have had world-leading impact.
5 CCS-funded Canadian cancer research milestones
1961
Dr James Till and Dr Ernest McCulloch discovered stem cells in bone marrow, which led to the development of bone marrow transplantation as a life-saving treatment for many cancers.
1994
Dr Frances Shepherd discovered that post-operative chemotherapy significantly increased the five-year survival rate for patients with non-small cell lung cancer, the most common kind – revolutionizing lung cancer treatment internationally.
1998
Dr Poul Sorensen discovered a new type of genetic fusion in a rare pediatric cancer, which led to a new drug that today treats more than 22 different cancers.
2002
Dr Timothy Whelan proved that 3-week radiation treatments, which are stronger and have fewer painful side effects, are equally as safe and effective as 5-week radiation treatments. This changed the way radiation therapy is delivered worldwide.
2016
Dr David Malkin developed the ‘Toronto Protocol,’ a treatment plan that dramatically increases survival after cancer diagnosis for people with Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare disorder that causes almost all those affected to develop cancer.
Incredible breakthroughs in cancer treatment are possible because of ongoing funding from dedicated supporters like you. Please consider becoming a monthly research donor to help fuel more breakthroughs and build a brighter future for all people facing cancer.