Innovation Anthology #293:

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Alberta has the highest incidence of inflammatory bowel disease in the country.

Researchers from a variety of disciplines are trying to understand what causes Crohns disease and colitis. They’re looking at a complex interplay between genetics, environmental factors, and bacteria in the gut.

According to Dr. Leo Dieleman at the University of Alberta, the scientists are also trying to figure out why there are hot spots and cold spots for the disease within the province.

DR. LEO DIELEMAN: So if you get people from the so-called cold areas where we don’t see much of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and compare those with the hotspots, you can actually find some really important information. What’s the difference.? Is there a difference in drinking water? Is there pollution in the drinking water that could cause these things.? We know that in Fort McMurray, has a high prevalence of the disease. Why is that? Air pollution even comes into mind. And so it has to be environmental factors that are responsible. And more importantly, the diet. I mean, we eat a very different diet now than 50 or 100 years ago.

Dr. Dieleman says the research team is looking for hundreds of people to participate in their study to help unravel the mystery of inflammatory bowel disease.

Thanks today to Alberta Innovates Health Solutions

FOR INNOVATION ANTHOLOGY I’M CHERYL CROUCHER

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Alberta Innovates Health Solutions

Alberta Innovates (formerly Alberta Innovates – Health Solutions)

As the newly formed Alberta Innovates corporation, we still fund top quality, internationally competitive health research and innovation activities to improve the health and wellbeing of Albertans. We provide leadership for Alberta’s health research and innovation enterprise by directing, coordinating, reviewing, funding and supporting research and innovation.

Working with our many partners  in the health system, we ensure that research achieves innovation in care, policy and practice, and that the needs of patients and clinicians influence research.

Our background

Alberta Innovates consolidation was launched November 1, 2016.

Alberta Innovates – Health Solutions

Alberta Innovates – Health Solutions was established as part of the Alberta Innovates system by an Act of Legislation of the Government of Alberta. It is a agency  of the Government of Alberta. We receive a yearly allocation from the Ministry of Health and report through the ministry to the people of Alberta.

Our Mandate and Roles document reflects our role and responsibilities and outlines the government statues and regulations with which we comply.

Alberta’s Health Research and Innovation Strategy (AHRIS) sets out Alberta’s health research agenda for the coming decade to ensure our considerable investments in research align with our priority—to improve the health of Albertans.

 

 

Program Date: 2010-02-25