Ground-breaking research. Brighter futures.

Every day, our researchers are working towards breakthroughs to transform the lives of kids in BC, Canada and around the world. Learn about the latest innovations, awards and honours; executive updates; and advancements in child health.

For media inquiries, please contact: 
Stephanie Dunn, Manager, Research Communications
sdunn@bcchr.ca | 604-875-2401

A newly discovered syndrome may illuminate the causes of certain cancers

Aug 4, 2015

CFRI investigator Dr. Bill Gibson and his colleagues have discovered a new genetic disorder in two young men who have suffered from a range of debilitating symptoms since birth. In addition to finally providing conclusive answers for these patients and their families, this research may ultimately help scientists better understand the root causes of certain forms of cancer.

Newly discovered genetic mutation ends a young girl’s diagnostic odyssey

Jun 16, 2015

CFRI researchers and their collaborators have discovered a new genetic mutation in a six-year-old-girl. Their finding solved a medical mystery for the young girl and her family. She was being treated at BC Children’s Hospital for developmental delays and other serious health problems that doctors were unable to explain. The medical team’s recently published findings may provide answers and eventually lead to improved therapies for other children who have similar symptoms and don’t respond to current treatments.

Providing hope, answers and support to children & families with undiagnosed disorders: CAUSES research clinic is now open

Jun 4, 2015
Children with rare, unexplained medical conditions may be able to obtain a diagnosis through the new ‘CAUSES’ research clinic at BC Children’s Hospital – ending a diagnostic odyssey for some families unable to get answers from standard tests.

New research recommends treating elevated blood pressure during pregnancy: Safer for the mother, safe for baby

Jan 28, 2015
Throughout her career in Canada and the UK, Dr. Laura Magee has taken a restrained approach to use of blood pressure-lowering medication in her pregnant patients, fearing that lowering pressure could reduce the flow of blood and vital nutrients to their babies.

Using innovative technology to improve care for vulnerable youth: New patient engagement software featured at TedMed 2014

Sep 23, 2014
BC Children's Hospital Clinician Scientist Dr. Sandy Whitehouse recently attended TedMed 2014 in San Francisco to promote TickiT, an interactive tablet- or computer-based questionnaire designed to improve the way doctors collect information about their patients.

New discovery about the gut’s immune defenses may reveal the causes of inflammatory bowel disease

Aug 25, 2014
An important discovery about how our gut protects our bodies from dangerous infections may help scientists understand the causes of inflammatory bowel disease, a group of common disorders that cause painful abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting and other debilitating symptoms.

New recommendations for diagnosing and treating hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: Q&A with Dr. Laura Magee

Jul 4, 2014
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs), including life-threatening conditions like preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, affect thousands of women in Canada every year and can cause grave complications like maternal stroke, preterm delivery and stillbirth.