University of British Columbia

A population-based study of 3,004 inflammatory arthritis patients in British Columbia found no significant differences in healthcare utilization between those prescribed etanercept biosimilars versus originators following a 2017 policy mandate.

Zetagen Therapeutics has completed enrollment in a Phase 2a clinical trial evaluating ZetaMet™ (Zeta-BC-003) for treating spinal metastatic lytic breast cancer lesions, with results expected in Q4 2025.

• A Canadian multi-center study demonstrates that the 'Walk 'n Watch' protocol significantly improved walking distance by 43.6 meters compared to standard care in stroke patients. • The protocol, which implements 30 minutes of progressive intensity walking activities with heart rate and step tracking, successfully enhanced patients' quality of life, balance, and mobility. • Real-world implementation across 12 Canadian hospitals proved highly effective, with researchers noting immediate applicability in current healthcare settings.

• University of Calgary researchers are initiating a validation study for the Mira Hormone Monitor, a device claiming to provide precise numerical readings of hormone biomarkers from urine samples. • The study, requiring Health Canada clearance, aims to validate the device's claimed 99% lab-grade accuracy using ultrasound testing as the gold standard for comparison. • The technology could revolutionize women's healthcare by enabling daily hormone tracking for conditions like PCOS and PMS, while providing comprehensive data for healthcare providers.

• Women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer reported improved cognitive function when participating in an aerobic exercise program, according to the ACTIVATE trial. • The study found that patients who started aerobic exercise alongside chemotherapy experienced better self-reported mental abilities compared to those receiving standard care alone. • Objective neuropsychological testing showed similar cognitive performance between the exercise and standard care groups, but exercise still improved quality of life. • Researchers suggest integrating exercise assessment and referral into routine cancer care to support both physical and mental health during and after treatment.

• A comprehensive review of literature reveals significant disparities in biologic therapy access for psoriasis patients, including barriers related to race, age, socioeconomic status, and rural residence. • Research from the University of British Columbia found that 59% of insured patients with mild-to-severe psoriasis went untreated in the previous year, highlighting substantial treatment gaps. • Key barriers identified include specialist shortages, healthcare practitioner awareness deficits, patient discrimination, lack of standardized treatment protocols, and high therapy costs.