Grant: CIHR Café Scientifique Program

Treatment options play a profound role in the outcome of a patient's cancer diagnosis. Current treatment options however are largely non-specific and toxic to the patient, although recent appreciation of the genomics of cancer has opened up development of cancer-targeted therapies and more personalized medicine options. Overall, cancer remains a difficult and complex disease to treat. Improving the treatment strategies and therapeutic options in cancer is thus an active area of research. Looking forward, what novel treatment options are being investigated? How do these new treatments address the current cancer therapeutic gaps? What is the likelihood of success with these new treatments? Are there any associated risks with these new treatment approaches? Our Cafe Scientifique series will engage members of the public in conversations about novel possibilities in cancer therapy, from discussions on viruses that specifically target cancer cells, to the development of immune system antibodies to cancer cells and vaccines to prevent the occurrence of cancer. With 1 in 4 Canadians expected to die from cancer, there is a need to openly communicate on cancer issues. Through this series of open dialogues, members of the public will explore the frontiers in cancer treatment options with our expert panelists.