MUHC in the Media - March 3, 2025

Meetings on fear of cancer recurrence at the MUHC: A balm for survivors
During diagnosis and treatment, cancer patients receive care. However, once treatment is over, other challenges arise. Indeed, the fear of recurrence can sometimes take over the mind, even preventing the return to daily activities. It is in this context that Samara Perez, psychologist at the Psychosocial Oncology Program at the MUHC, launched the first series of meetings with a group of ten patients at the MUHC. The Gazette.

Few benefits in preventive antibiotics for Group A streptococcal infections
Public health guidelines recommend antibiotics to prevent infection in the close contacts of people with invasive Group A streptococcal diseases (iGAS), but a study led by Dr. Sasha Bernatsky at The Institute shows that there are few advantages and undesirable effects associated with this practice. Noovo

Immunotherapy's failure in the face of brain cancer could be explained
A new study by Dr. Charles Couturier at The Neuro shows that a commonly prescribed anti-swelling drug suppresses the immune system for weeks after dosage, inhibiting the body’s ability to fight cancer. La Presse

Dr. Lucie Opatrny reflects on the key moments of the pandemic
Former Assistant Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MSSS) until January 2023, Dr. Lucie Opatrny highlighted the exceptional work of her colleagues throughout the pandemic during an interview broadcast on the CBC News Montreal newscast. The CEO of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) shared her thoughts and experiences about this unprecedented health crisis on CBC News.

A look back at the pandemic
Dr. Don Vinh, an infectious disease specialist at the MUHC, reflects on the first waves of the health crisis and highlights the rapid scientific advancements made to better understand the virus and develop protective measures, while also lamenting the mistrust of science shown by part of the population. City News
Dr. Don Vinh also gave an interview about the avian flu virus, praising the federal government's proactive approach to the issue. CTV News

COVID-19 still present in children
Like adults, COVID-19 is still circulating in children. Although it doesn't make most children very ill, those with other medical conditions can be seriously affected, notes Dr. Jesse Papenburg, pediatric infectious diseases specialist and medical microbiologist at the Montreal Children's Hospital. CTV News

Work on the extension to Lachine Hospital is progressing well
After several rounds of inspections by the teams responsible for overseeing the various stages, the work on the prototype room is nearly completed. The Assistant Director of Lachine Hospital, Myriam Ménard, provided an update on the work. Nouvelles d'ici

CAR-T immunotherapy sparks hope in autoimmune disease research
Dr. Evelyne Vinet, rheumatologist and researcher at The Institute, talks about the “revolution” that CAR-T therapy could represent for her lupus patients, in particular. La Presse

His dream comes true before he passes
Gerry McAdam, a well-known patient at the Montreal Children's Hospital, realized his dream of raising funds to build a training centre for his village's firefighters. He may not see the building take shape, but he will at least have achieved his financial goal: Gerry succumbed to cancer on February 19, surrounded by his loved ones. CTV News pays tribute to this 16-year-old who gave his all for his community.

Hope for autistic children?
A recent study suggests a link between the body's inability to convert folic acid into folinic acid and certain neurological disorders associated with autism. Comments by Dr. Shuvo Ghosh, Head of the Developmental Pediatrics Program at the Montreal Children's Hospital. La Presse Canadienne

Measles cases continue to rise
Measles cases are on the rise in Canada. Lower vaccination coverage is one of the reasons why, notes Dr. Earl Rubin, Director of the Infectious Diseases Division at the Montreal Children's Hospital. CBC, Corus/Global News radio network

Is it safe to leave your child alone in a car?
Is it dangerous to leave your child alone in a car, even for a few minutes? Dr. Julie St-Pierre, a pediatrician at the Montreal Children's Hospital, is categorical: yes, because you can't prevent the unexpected. 98.5 FM

Are you afraid of flying?
The recent plane crashes in the United States and Toronto may have intensified the fear of flying, especially among passengers who are already anxious. Psychologist Jean-Philippe Gagné, who specializes in treating phobias at the MUHC, offers some valuable advice to help travellers better manage their stress and make their air travel experiences more serene. TVA Nouvelles