MUHC in the Media - January 27, 2025

The HPV (human papillomavirus) test is significantly more precise than the traditional Pap test for detecting cervical cancer, which primarily affects women aged from 40 to 44. However, it remains unfortunately inaccessible in many regions of Quebec, depriving numerous patients of an early and reliable tool to detect the virus responsible for this cancer. Dr. Samara Perez, a researcher at the Research Institute and psychologist in the psychosocial oncology program at the MUHC, is advocating for the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MSSS) to implement widespread distribution of the HPV test across the province. CBC Let’s go

Human beings naturally tend to seek out information that validates their thoughts and beliefs, and questioning them can feel like a threat to their identity. The instinctive reaction is often to argue and defend one's position vigorously. However, the best way to approach differences of opinion is to adopt an attitude of curiosity, seeking to understand what the other person thinks, without judgment or animosity. Jennifer Russell, Director of the Department of Psychology at the MUHC (adult sites), discusses these sometimes-delicate situations that can arise during a family dinner or a gathering among friends. Listen to her segment on CJAD.

A frenotomy is an operation that involves cutting the frenulum of the tongue. It's often performed to solve breastfeeding problems, but is not necessarily indicated in many cases, says Dr. Sam Daniel, Chief of Surgery at the Montreal Children's Hospital. CJAD, Protégez-Vous, CTV News

Young babies are particularly vulnerable to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Access to the RSV vaccine for this population is therefore hoped for, says Dr. Jesse Papenburg, pediatric infectious disease specialist and medical microbiologist at the Montreal Children's Hospital. CBC

Getting health information online? There are several pitfalls to avoid, says Dr. Julie St-Pierre, pediatrician at the Montreal Children's Hospital. 98.5 FM

A new study at The Neuro is validating made-in-Quebec research which hopes to use an already approved medication for overactive bladder in the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Neurologist Dr. Oliver Blanchard, one of the investigators of the trial, explains how it works. Global News Morning, La Presse, CTV News