Dr. Husam Abdel-Qadir, MD, FRCPC, DABIM

The Heart-Breaking Fight Against Breast Cancer

In Canada, breast cancer remains the most common type of cancer in women, while cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death. What has been historically overlooked is how breast cancer survivors have an increased risk of heart disease and stroke following their cancer treatments.

Dr. Husam Abdel-Qadir’s research is tackling these two large threats to the health of women at their intersection through his unique cardio-oncology research. He is addressing the challenges of providing the best possible care for these complex patients whose needs are not currently being met within our healthcare system. Specifically, Dr. Abdel-Qadir’s research is helping clinicians make more informed recommendations regarding cancer treatment to protect women from future cardiovascular disease, enabling them to live longer and better-quality lives. Recently, Dr. Abdel-Qabir’s research has evolved to explore the intersections between treatments for other cancers with heart health and brain health.

Join us to discover how Dr. Husam Abdel-Qadir’s groundbreaking research is directly improving the heart health of women with breast cancer. At Women for Women’s, you will hear firsthand about WCH’s leadership in two health issues that significantly impact women – cardiovascular disease and breast cancer.

Rachel Savage, PhD

A Public Health Crisis: Loneliness and Women’s Health

Rachel Savage, PhD, is investigating loneliness and social isolation at the population-level to understand how we can improve the health and well-being of our aging population and support health system sustainability. 

More people are experiencing loneliness, which can greatly impact their well-being, our society and the health system. You might be wondering why a hospital and health research institute are highlighting this concern. The reality is that loneliness is one of the most urgent health concerns of our time. U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy says “social connection is a fundamental human need, as essential as food, water, and shelter.” A lack of social connection increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, dementia, diabetes, depression, anxiety and premature death. Loneliness can be felt across the life course; however, among older adults, its burden is greater for women, who tend to outlive their partners, be in isolating care-giving roles and experience more financial insecurity.  

As a Scientist at Women’s College Hospital, Rachel Savage, PhD, is shedding new light on how loneliness greatly increases health risks for women of all ages.  Just in time for International Women’s Day, join us to learn how her work is addressing loneliness, social isolation and the health of women, and how her work will improve the well-being of our communities. Attending Women for Women’s, presented by KPMG Canada, will provide you with valuable insights on how Women’s College Hospital is addressing this growing concern, and what you can do to ensure the women in your community live long, rich and healthy lives.