The Manitoba government is investing $1 million over three years in ovarian cancer research through Ovarian Cancer Canada (OCC) and the Manitoba Ovarian Cancer Research group.
“This is a strategic and intentional investment that strengthens our commitment to women’s cancer care – an area that has long been under-researched and under-funded,” said Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara. “By supporting ovarian cancer research, we are empowering our world-class scientists and taking steps toward a future where every woman has access to the care and hope she deserves. Manitoba is proud to lead the way.”
The funding will support innovative research projects and bring Manitoba closer to establishing an ovarian cancer centre of excellence in Winnipeg, positioning the province as a national leader in ovarian cancer research and women’s health, noted the minister.
Each year, approximately 3,000 Canadians are diagnosed with ovarian cancer including 110 Manitobans. With a five-year survival rate of only 45 per cent, the disease remains one of the most challenging cancers to treat, the minister added.
Research funding will be managed through OCC’s peer-reviewed granting process to ensure Manitoba-based funding directly supports researchers in Manitoba and will benefit all Canadians. The investment will help accelerate the development of local innovations including novel therapies for chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer and experimental tissue resources derived from local patient tumours, the minister noted, adding it will also strengthen partnerships with the University of Manitoba, CancerCare Manitoba and OCC.
“This timely investment reinforces the province’s commitment to health equity, driving innovation and improving outcomes for women affected with ovarian cancer,” said Asagwara.
OCC is the only national charity dedicated solely to ovarian cancer, supporting over 85 researchers and more than 60 projects since 2019. Its collaborative model is designed to unite scientists, clinicians and patients across Canada under a single targeted strategy focused on prevention, treatment and ultimately a cure.
