Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute

AI-powered software could enhance heart disease diagnostics by analyzing point-of-care ultrasound images with a machine learning algorithm. A study led by VCHRI researcher Dr. Christina Luong shows that this tool could be safely used to improve the timeliness of heart failure diagnosis and treatment. “The sooner a patient receives diagnostic testing, the sooner they can start the recommended treatment,” states Dr. Luong. Learn more about VGH-UBC Artificial Intelligence Echo Core Lab’s study: https://lnkd.in/gq7Au8RK #HealthResearch #HeartHealth #AIInHealthCare

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects approximately 10% of women of childbearing age. A new study suggests that women with endometriosis may have a markedly increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. VCHRI investigator Dr. Paul Yong calls for more studies to identify high-risk women and develop prevention strategies. By advancing our understanding, we can pave the way for more effective interventions and improve outcomes for women affected by this condition. Learn more: https://ow.ly/Cmlv50SYNwX #HealthResearch #Endometriosis #OvarianCancer

On September 11, join us for a workshop with the Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia to find out the data management resources available for researchers at VCHRI. Data management experts Kenny Hammond and Ashley McKerrow will explain how to leverage REDcap for electronic data collection, OpenSpecimen for biobanking & Microsoft PowerBI for data visualization. Register to participate: https://lnkd.in/gEdgB9Rk #HealthResearch #DataManagement #ProfessionalDevelopment

A landmark initiative led by VCHRI executive director Dr. Teresa Tsang is leveraging the power of AI to transform health care and enhance access for rural, remote and Indigenous communities across B.C. “The integration of AI in cardiac imaging has transformative potential,” says Dr. Tsang. “What used to only be possible in major health care centres, can now be done virtually anywhere.” Discover more about the UBC-VCH AI Echo Core Lab’s research: https://ow.ly/YBF550SYNqK #HealthResearch #AIInHealthCare #HealthInnovation

Meet Ricky Hu — A research engineer at the UBC Robotics and Control Laboratory (RCL) and the AI Core Echo Lab empowering medical students with artificial intelligence education. “My interest in developing AI for clinical applications stems from my academic passions: computer science, physics and medicine,” says Ricky. Ricky is also an outdoors survival leader with Scouts Canada. He has brought over 500 youth on yearly camping trips, trudging in snow, sailing across the Strait of Georgia and bushwhacking in the backcountry. Learn more about Ricky and his research: https://lnkd.in/gA53zyae #HealthResearch #PeopleInProfile #ArtificialIntelligence

Ultrasounds offer real-time images of internal organs, helping clinicians assess, diagnose, and treat patients. However, radiologists and sonographers trained to operate these technologies are often in short supply. In a first-of-its-kind study, VCHRI researcher Dr. Tim Salcudean is exploring the potential of human-teleoperated ultrasound to improve healthcare access in rural and remote communities. Learn more about Dr. Salcudean’s research: https://lnkd.in/eUGM2dqy #HealthResearch #HealthInnovation #TeleHealth

Each year, millions of women around the globe transition into menopause. This perimenopausal phase involves hormone fluctuations that can negatively impact sleep, cause hot flashes and lead to weight gain. This time also puts women at greater risk of developing dementia. Noticing cognitive decline in her mother and grandmother, Diana Ljuljovic joined a study led by VCHRI investigator Teresa Liu-Ambrose, PhD, PT, which aimed to examine the effects of exercise on the cognitive health of perimenopausal women. "I say yes to participate in research because not only are you most likely going to benefit yourself, but you will also help others find effective ways to better themselves with tested and proven methods," says Diana. Learn more about Diana’s story: https://lnkd.in/gFhQVGD5 #HealthResearch #Menopause #HealthyAging

As wildfires continue to burn across B.C. and in the Rocky Mountains, VCHRI investigator Dr. Christopher Carlsten warns about the long-term health effects of wildfire smoke and highlights importance of reducing exposure. “People who have pre-existing conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, have less reserve, they’ve already got it compromised by an existing disease,” highlights Dr. Carlsten. Find out more in the Global News story: https://ow.ly/IykH50SPuBV #HealthResearch #Wildfires #RespiratoryHealth

This year is expected to be the hottest in centuries. As heat waves become hotter, longer and more frequent, VCHRI investigator Dr. Liv Yoon explains the risks for people with mental health conditions. “More and more research is finding that social isolation is a huge factor in predicting someone’s risks amid extreme heat,” Dr. Yoon says, highlighting the importance of social connections as crucial protective measures. Learn more about Dr. Yoon’s research in a Bloomberg News story: https://ow.ly/BOei50SPu81 #HealthResearch #MentalHealth #ExtremeHeat

We are delighted to announce the establishment of the Indigenous Health Research Unit at VCHRI and the appointment of Dr. Gabrielle Legault as its director. At VCHRI, we are committed to advancing Indigenous health research, fostering collaboration and improving health outcomes for Indigenous communities. The VCHRI Indigenous Health Research Unit will promote Indigenous health equity and cultural safety through community-driven research initiatives and meaningful partnerships. In her new role, Dr. Legault, a proud Métis scholar, will oversee strategic initiatives and lead the operations and collaborative efforts of the unit to enhance Indigenous health and wellness. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gPQDVbPz Discover the new VCHRI Indigenous Health Research Unit: https://lnkd.in/gkHFHsbP #HealthResearch #IndigenousHealth #Leadership