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.
Help create a future without cancer
With support from readers like you, we can continue to make a meaningful impact for people affected by cancer.
We are determined to increase survival, stop cancer before it starts, and improve lives. But we can’t do it without you.
If everyone reading this gave just $5, we could achieve our goal this month to fund the most promising research, compassionate support and transformative advocacy. Please give today because every contribution counts. Thank you.