Cancer Research Institute of Northern Alberta - University of Alberta

04/09/2026

Join us on May 5th for Science in the Cinema at the Metro. Free film screening & discussion of "Jim Allison: Breakthrough", the story of Allison's Nobel Prize-winning quest to cure cancer. Learn more. https://www.ualberta.ca/en/cancer-institute/events/science-in-the-cinema.html

03/31/2026

📣 EVENT ALERT: Pan-Canadian Patient Forum

Join the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network Patient Working Group for a free virtual forum on Precision Oncology: From Hope to Impact — created by patients, for patients, caregivers, and families.

🗓️ April 26 (English) | May 3 (French)

Hear from patients, clinicians, and researchers as they share real-world experiences and answer your questions about personalized cancer care.

You’ll learn:
▪️ What precision oncology is
▪️ How it’s changing treatment today
▪️ How the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network is bringing it to more Canadians

👉 Register (English): https://tfri.zoom.us/webinar/register/2817743751560/WN_mL-oZj0MSaiKTQB2LEoNEA
👉 Register (French): https://tfri.zoom.us/webinar/register/5617744580842/WN_G29xGkqcSpudc5J62qiG5Q

Help spread the word — and together, let’s for Terry!

03/11/2026

CRINA member Carla Prado will look at how much protein women need to maintain vital muscle mass during chemotherapy — a key factor in survival and quality of life.

A U of A researcher has received a prestigious national fellowship to help women with breast cancer stay stronger during treatment by looking at how much protein they need to help prevent muscle loss.

03/10/2026

Prescribing exercise as a treatment for colon cancer has taken a big step forward, based on results from a landmark international study co-led by CRINA member Kerry Courneya.

Prescribing exercise as an actual treatment for cancer — not just for symptoms or side-effects — has taken a big step forward, thanks to the findings of a landmark international study co-led by the University of Alberta.

02/04/2026

February 4th is World Cancer Day. This year’s theme is 'United by Unique', acknowledging the reality that every cancer patient is on their own journey, but at the same time united by the disease that affects many. To transform the future of cancer, CRINA scientists and clinicians are conducting novel research while united by a common purpose – to improve the lives of those affected by this disease.

12/22/2025

Happy Holidays from the Cancer Research Institute of Northern Alberta!

12/16/2025

A new U of A research and training program is working to improve early detection and treatment of lymphedema, a debilitating and chronic condition affecting more than a million Canadians, many of them cancer survivors. The initiative aims to close critical gaps in evidence and care to improve long-term quality of life.

The U of A’s new Lymphedema Research and Training Program will focus on research into early detection and treatment for the painful swelling disorder that impairs quality of life for 1.25 million Canadians.

10/24/2025

A U of A research team is shedding much-needed light on cancer cachexia — a severe muscle-wasting syndrome linked to up to a third of cancer deaths.

"It takes 10 years for an aging person to lose two to four per cent of their muscle," says principal investigator Dr. Sambasivarao Damaraju. "Cancer patients can lose up to 20 per cent of their muscle within six months."

The team's discoveries could pave the way for new treatment options and a better quality of life for patients.

Read the full story: https://bit.ly/3L79EkC

10/21/2025

In Loving Memory of John Sexsmith

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our cherished friend and advocate, John Sexsmith, who passed after a courageous 15-year journey with prostate cancer.

John’s voice was one Albertans knew well and trusted. As a natural storyteller, he captured the spirit of community during his 35-year journalism career. This passion for connection continued in his work with us at the Alberta Cancer Foundation.

John was a steadfast champion for cancer awareness, dedicating his time to illuminating the hope and resilience within the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton. He immersed himself in the cancer care community, celebrating the innovation, research, and compassionate doctors who extended his life beyond expectations. His unwavering commitment to our mission of creating more moments was not just a cause, it truly was the way he lived, willingly, passionately and meaningfully.

Every day, John brightened our lives at the Alberta Cancer Foundation with his infectious laughter, clever puns and warm smile. He had an extraordinary gift for forging genuine connections, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. His life's purpose was clear: to bring light and joy to those around him.

Our deepest condolences go to his beloved wife, Jo-Anne, and son, Joel. John spoke of them with profound love and gratitude, and we hope they find comfort in knowing how deeply he was cherished by our team and the countless donors, patients, and staff whose lives he touched.

John's legacy is indelibly etched in the heart of the Alberta Cancer Foundation. His spirit of hope, connection and advocacy will continue to inspire us as we carry forward the work he so passionately believed in.

10/10/2025

Watch "Exercise as Medicine: The power of movement during and after cancer treatment"

Studies are showing the crucial role exercise plays during cancer treatment and recovery. Hear from two University of Alberta scientists about their research...

09/25/2025

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian men, with more than 27,900 men expected to be diagnosed every year.

Because prostate cancer affects so many people, there is a lot of information about the risks, effects of treatment and outcomes of this disease. But there is also a lot of incorrect information.

This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, learn the truth about common prostate cancer misconceptions so you can tell fact from fiction.

Read more about prostate cancer misconceptions🔗: https://bit.ly/427wOgB

09/11/2025

Join CRINA on October 9th for this special public talk about research into the major benefits of exercise for people affected by cancer. Get tickets bit.ly/42jOSUw