Health Research for Solutions: Over $2 Million Invested in Healthier Futures

Ultrasound imaging is a critical component of prenatal care for detection of pregnancy complications, but ultrasound expertise is currently inequitably distributed in Saskatchewan, Canada, and worldwide. Obstetrical ultrasound is particularly inaccessible in rural and remote Indigenous communities. We introduce a new approach to perform ultrasound exams, in which a novice user performs blind sweeps of the lower abdomen and an artificial intelligence algorithm subsequently analyses the blind sweep data. We will pilot this new approach in a Cree community in northern Saskatchewan.

The proposed approach has the potential to shift current paradigms around how ultrasound is performed, while increasing Indigenous women’s access to prenatal care. Through a community-based approach to research, we aim to explore a solution to current inequities that is culturally responsive, cost-effective, and accessible to Indigenous communities.

The current problem is that Saskatchewan is the only province in Canada not participating in the national surveillance of birth defects. Consequently, the relevance to Saskatchewan, is that we currently have no data on the incidence and prevalence of birth defects across the province or how socioeconomic and geographical factors are determining access to related maternal, fetal and pediatric health care. This research project will be our first step towards identifying all cases of birth defects in Saskatchewan using the Health Research Data Platform – Saskatchewan to access all the relevant data already uploaded in Ministry of Health provincial datasets.

The potential impact of this will be in providing this data to obstetric, neonatology and pediatric care providers and health care managers across Saskatchewan to ensure equitable care for mothers and children growing up with birth defects, independent of their socioeconomic background or where they live in the province.

Pediatric T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive childhood cancer caused by molecular defects in T cells of the immune system. Despite advances in T-ALL therapy, ~30% of patients face cancer comeback after initial treatments. They have very limited treatment options and most of them succumb to the disease. Our recent findings demonstrate that a cell surface protein, EphB6, is often overproduced in T-ALL cells and this overproduction makes T-ALL cells more sensitive to some drugs. Therefore, to identify most effective T-ALL treatments, we plan to test ~1800 already existing drugs to find candidates most effective in killing EphB6 overproducing T-ALL cells. Therapeutic effectiveness of these candidates will be then confirmed in preclinical T-ALL models.

Since our investigation will be focused on a large library of already clinically-approved reagents, it should support a rapid development of novel more effective approaches to treating pediatric T-ALL patients, thus improving their survival and quality of life.

This project aims to improve ADHD and autism diagnoses in rural and remote Canadian communities by introducing eye-tracking technology alongside traditional assessment tools. Current diagnostic methods rely on subjective evaluations and are often inaccessible to these communities, causing long delays. In the first phase, we’ll gather feedback from families and healthcare providers to understand their experiences, concerns, and priorities regarding ADHD and autism assessments. In the second phase, we’ll compare the new eye-tracking tool with standard assessments to evaluate its effectiveness and accuracy.

By combining eye-tracking with existing methods, we aim to create a faster, more objective, and accessible diagnostic approach. This project ultimately seeks to reduce healthcare disparities for children in underserved areas by building a reliable, community-supported tool that can facilitate earlier and more accurate diagnosis of ADHD and autism.

The South West 4-6 Health Networks (SWHNs) in Saskatchewan are facing challenges in meeting recommended protection levels for routine childhood immunizations. The SWHNs are rurally located, where a better understanding of the unique immunization barriers and community input is needed. The purpose of this study is to work with the SWHNs and community partners to engage caregivers with children aged 0-6 years and healthcare workers to understand factors influencing immunization and to develop community-driven strategies to better meet the needs of families and improve immunization services. We will attempt to build trust and relationships with partner-specified groups to begin immunization conversations. To better understand strengths, areas for improvement, and strategies forward, participants will complete a survey and/or engage in group discussions.

Our findings will be used to improve services, may help increase immunization protection levels, and support the health and well-being of children, families, and the population of the province.

Breastfeeding is an ideal nutrition for young children that can save lives of young babies and protect them from a variety of diseases. Considering many benefits of breastfeeding, World Health Organization and UNICEF recommended implementation of baby-friendly hospital initiative in all healthcare facilities to support breastfeeding and well-being of young children. Saskatchewan has 70 healthcare facilities, however, only one healthcare facility has baby-friendly hospital initiative status due to which mothers often lack adequate breastfeeding support towards their breastfeeding practices.

This project aims to involve healthcare providers and breastfeeding mothers as partners in identifying facilitators and barriers, formulating recommendations to overcome challenges, and co-developing an action plan that can support implementation of baby-friendly hospital initiative in healthcare settings Saskatchewan. Recommendations and action plan from this project will assist Saskatchewan Health Authority in improving the quality of mother-child care by supporting breastfeeding practices of mothers with young children.

This research aims to co-identify features of neighborhoods that support youth mental health through a participatory, community-based approach. Over two years, we will conduct a study using both creative and data-driven methods to meet four objectives: 1) explore how neighborhood features affect youth mental health, 2) identify the key qualities of mental health-friendly neighborhoods, 3) understand youth perspectives on ideal neighborhood design for mental well-being, and 4) prioritize these neighborhood elements.

The study will focus on two inner-city and one suburban neighborhood to understand how different designs influence youth mental health. Youth will share their perspectives through photovoice and digital storytelling, capturing their visions of spaces that support mental health. A two-round consensus-building process will then help them prioritize these features. This research will inform urban planning for healthier, more inclusive urban spaces. Integrating youth perspectives will help shape future city designs, revitalize inner-city areas, and support balanced urban growth.

Across Canada, Indigenous children have poorer health outcomes and greater health inequalities than non-Indigenous children. They also have difficulty accessing pediatric rehabilitation services due to remote living, travel, and lack of services in communities. This impacts quality of life and function for pediatric patients. Dr. Lovo has worked with Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) and Pelican Narrows since 2015 on virtual care projects to enhance access to rehabilitation services, and with Deschambault Lake and Southend for two years.

Pediatric rehabilitation was recommended by community Elders and the PBCN Health Services board as a priority. Needs assessments are nearing completion , and short term pilot interventions will launch winter 2025. The present proposal will evaluate a subsequent model of care after pilots are complete, integrating a mobile pod which will house virtual and in person pediatric rehabilitation, and travel to the three communities. Evaluation will occur in partnership with communities and Elders.

Bone health in pregnant women and newborns is poorly understood. We will conduct a pilot study to determine the effects of prenatal folic acid supplements on bone density before, during, and after pregnancy, as well as relationships to the growth and development of the fetus and newborn. Bone density in pregnant women will be measured using ultrasound bone densitometry, a new imaging tool which in Canada. We will then determine if bone density in pregnant women using a new versus standard folic acid supplement impacts fetal growth and/or neonatal health and well-being.

Our findings will provide evidence-based recommendations for parents and healthcare providers about the safety and effectiveness of new folate supplements. Results of this research also have the potential to lead to the development of state-of-the-science ultrasound-based screening tools for pregnant women and babies at risk for metabolic bone disease, thereby optimizing maternal-infant health in Saskatchewan.

Severe complications during pregnancy are lifechanging for women, their families and care providers. These complications and conditions, called severe maternal morbidities, occur more frequently in Saskatchewan than in many provinces. Little is known about the occurrence and if risk has changed over time. Available statistics are limited and do not provide enough information for the health system to adequately respond.

To strengthen reporting in Saskatchewan, we propose to develop a surveillance system to measure and monitor maternal and newborn complications and health outcomes. Routine reporting will inform clinical improvement and public health strategies. These data will also help researchers to identify trends and areas of improvement. Safer Pregnancy Saskatchewan will use best practices from other provinces such as British Columbia, Ontario and countries such as the United Kingdom to strengthen monitoring of maternal and infant health.

This project addresses child sexual abuse prevention by empowering Saskatchewan parents of young children to teach consent, body autonomy, and child sexual abuse prevention skills. Recognizing parents as critical educators, it supports them through facilitated support groups that enhance their ability to engage with and complete online education. Given SK's high rates of violence and research limitations on school-based child sexual abuse programs, this approach seeks to work with what exists to provide an alternative, by fostering parent-led environments where consent education becomes a natural part of family life.

By gathering insights directly from parent participants, we aim to refine support group methods and evaluate their effectiveness, ultimately laying groundwork for broader, province-wide implementation. This initiative holds potential for long-term benefits, decreasing child sexual abuse risk and fostering a culture of consent across generations.

This project aims to develop and test a virtual reality wellness program to support the mental health and well-being of Indigenous youth in rural and remote Saskatchewan communities. Through close partnerships with Indigenous youth, educators, and community leaders, we will co-create virtual reality experiences that combine cultural practices with mental health resources, providing a safe, accessible, and engaging space for youth to connect, learn, and grow. Using a secure virtual reality platform, youth can participate in workshops, interact with Indigenous role models, and access wellness tools that foster resilience and a sense of community. We will assess the program’s effectiveness by tracking engagement, collecting user feedback, and evaluating mental health impacts.

By combining traditional knowledge with innovative virtual reality technology, this project seeks to address mental health service gaps and create a sustainable, culturally relevant support system for Indigenous youth across Saskatchewan.

This patient-oriented feasibility study aims to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a 12-week hybrid exercise rehabilitation intervention for urban and rural cancer survivors in Saskatchewan. We plan to recruit 30 participants with specific inclusion criteria, including a recent cancer diagnosis and treatment, age 18 or older, and ability to provide informed consent. The study will begin with a baseline assessment and orientation to familiarize participants with Zoom and the exercise routines. Sessions will occur twice a week, with an option for in-person participation, featuring multimodal training based on the Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type principle.

Primary outcomes will focus on feasibility and acceptability, while exploratory outcomes will include cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, balance, quality of life, and cancer-related symptoms. Findings from this study will inform a larger multi-site randomized controlled trial aimed at developing a sustainable exercise rehabilitation program tailored for rural cancer survivors in Saskatchewan.

Rural Saskatchewan is facing a critical shortage of primary care providers, limiting primary care access and increasing physician burnout. To address these challenges, two clinics in Swift Current are piloting the Patient Medical Home model. A team-based approach to health care, Patient Medical Home integrates allied health professionals, such as nurses and mental health specialists, into physician-led teams. This approach contrasts with traditional private practice, where doctors typically work independently.

This study will evaluate the Patient Medical Home model’s impact in the two clinics by assessing patients’ access to care, patient satisfaction, and healthcare providers’ experiences. It aims to identify what factors support or hinder the model’s success in rural settings. The findings will provide evidence-based recommendations to help tailor the Patient Medical Home model to the unique needs of rural communities, with the goal of improving primary care access and sustainability across Saskatchewan.

Indigenous (First Nation and Métis) communities in Saskatchewan face high rates of substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges. They are disproportionately affected, especially in rural and remote areas where access to treatment is severely limited. The proposed study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Indigenous Virtual Intensive Substance Use Treatment Outpatient Program with Indigenous Peoples (I- ViSTOP) in the treatment of substance use. The program has been co-created and will be co-delivered by an interdisciplinary team of researchers, clinicians, and Indigenous community leaders. It integrates traditional First Nation and Métis healing practices and activities with evidence-based Western treatment for holistic recovery.

This project is expected to make a meaningful impact by providing a tailored approach to substance use treatment that aligns with the unique needs of Indigenous communities, improving public health and supporting the goals of Truth and Reconciliation. The long-term goal is to empower Indigenous communities in delivering culturally-responsive treatment programs to combat substance use disorders.

Alzheimer's disease is a debilitating condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Extensive data suggests that accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques in the brain plays a critical role in Alzheimer's disease, which leads to memory loss and difficulties with daily activities. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, making the search for effective treatments and interventions a critical global priority.

In a recent study investigating the benefits of kefir, a fermented milk drink, our group discovered three promising compounds, PW, M20 and M25, that appear to be able to cross into the brain and combat the harmful effects of amyloid beta, which could help slow down or even prevent Alzheimer's disease. Our study aims to examine how long PW, M20 and M25 remain in the body and their ability to reach the brain in healthy mice. Subsequently, we will test their potential to improve symptoms in mice designed to model Alzheimer's disease.

Our project aims to explore a new way to treat Alzheimer's disease by adapting a technique called radioimmunotherapy, initially designed for targeting cancer cells. Instead of focusing on cancer, we want to investigate whether radioimmunotherapy can be effective in breaking down or eliminating beta-amyloid (Aβ) plaques in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's. The research will be carried out in collaboration with Drs. Darrell Mousseau and Alanna Baillod.

This approach is unique because radioimmunotherapy has never been considered for Alzheimer's disease treatment before. We believe that using anti-Aβ monoclonal antibodies in radioimmunotherapy can deliver radiation very precisely and can disrupt and help remove Aβ aggregates. Such disruption of the plaques will be irreversible. Overall, our investigation into radioimmunotherapy for Alzheimer's disease treatment could provide a new and innovative approach to alleviate symptoms, aligning with the goal of finding effective treatments for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

The human brain is composed of 90% lipids and recent reports have linked aberrant lipid levels and functions with Alzheimer's disease. We have discovered a small peptide called Indip with capability of harnessing/inhibiting one of the major cellular lipid gene regulators, SREBP1. We will investigate the potential protective effects of Indip in cultured rat brain cells exposed to toxic Alzheimer's disease-causing amyloid beta oligomers.

Successful outcome of this proof-of-principle study will support testing of this novel therapeutic agent in animal models of Alzheimer's disease and open new avenues for therapeutic drug development.

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in Canada. A challenge in treating lung cancer is to destroy cancer while being expected to preserve the function of the remaining lung tissue as much as possible. Microwave ablation shows the potential to meet this expectation. Currently, microwave ablation is operated using a long needle that gets to the tumour site from the skin through a hole, which could have serious complications.

In this project, the research team aims to develop a tool that can deliver the microwave ablation needle to the lung cancer through the airway of the patient body, which will not cause any lung damage. Saskatchewan has been an early adopter of ablation techniques, including microwave ablation, as alternatives to surgery since the 1980s. This project will therefore will certainly benefit patients in Saskatchewan, Canada and the world.

Lung diseases account for significant morbidity and mortality as recently demonstrated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Medical professionals and researchers worldwide have been tirelessly working to find ways to diagnose, treat, and protect against lung diseases. To this end, the current research landscape relies on culture dishes and/or animals for experiments but suffers from limitations related to their differences from human lungs.

This has highlighted the urgent need for out-of-body models mimicking the human lung to advance the understanding of lung diseases and to develop drugs and vaccines to combat lung diseases. The overall goal of this project is to establish a collaboration at the University of Saskatchewan and pursue an interdisciplinary study focused on the development of novel out-of-body lung models. Successful completion of this project will help us to launch a long-term collaboration to better understand lung disease and inform drug/vaccine development.