Lung Cancer Champions: MUHC Leads the Charge in McGill's RUISSS Network

On November 29, the RUISSS McGill held its fourth annual Lung Cancer Network Conference at St. Mary's Hospital Centre, an event that brought together healthcare professionals and innovators dedicated to advancing lung cancer care. The MUHC has been positioned as the lead center in this initiative since 2019, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to the fight against this deadly disease.

Cutting-Edge Initiatives to Improve Patient Care

In the five years since its inception, the MUHC has worked tirelessly to coordinate efforts across its network of institutional partners, sharing best practices and fostering innovative treatments. This year's conference, organized with the CIUSSS de l'Ouest-de-l'île-de-Montréal (ODIM), highlighted critical projects like the Rapid Pulmonary Investigation Access Point (GRIP). This innovative program, already implemented at St. Mary's and CIUSSS ODIM, aims to drastically reduce diagnostic delays, enabling quicker and more efficient patient care.

Dr. Spicer underscored the vital role of an online referral system in streamlining patient pathways, while Dr. Meti pointed out how the GRIP initiative promotes collaboration among healthcare professionals. Advances in technology also play a pivotal role, with IT specialists at CIUSSS du Nord-de-l'île developing tools that enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve care pathways.

Trailblazers in Research and Innovative Therapies

The conference also showcased remarkable strides in research, including a groundbreaking video that highlighted the MUHC's pioneering role as the first center globally to participate in individualized messenger RNA therapy trials. Dr. Esfahani discussed the complexities of immunotherapy for lung cancer and presented insights on the MIRAE project, which investigates immune-related complications. Additionally, Dr. Fiset introduced an artificial intelligence method for analyzing cancerous tissues, significantly minimizing diagnostic biases—work that has garnered attention with its publication in the prestigious journal *Nature*.

Holistic Patient Support Initiatives

Recognizing the multifaceted nature of cancer care, various initiatives were also highlighted. Virginia Bruman and Luca Petrucelli presented a screening tool for psychological distress developed at MUHC, while Sophie Pinard shared insights on the healing benefits of music therapy, reflecting a comprehensive approach to patient support that goes beyond mere physical treatment.

Fostering Collaboration and Future Endeavors

The conference concluded with a lively round-table discussion featuring key experts and decision-makers, including remarks from Nathalie Fortin, Director of Cancer Care and Services at MSSS-PQC, and Christine Bouchard, Associate Director of the MUHC Cancer Care Mission.

Christine Bouchard emphasized, “Awareness of our entire network's capabilities is paramount. We can achieve greatness by understanding our colleagues' realities and working together. Hosting annual meetings outside the MUHC enhances our unity and motivation.”

Samantha Santilli, MUHC Senior Advisor and conference organizer, expressed hope that other centers within the McGill RUISSS network would step up to host future lung cancer conferences, further igniting collaborative efforts across the region.

Dr. Spicer, a Thoracic Surgeon at the Montreal General Hospital (MUHC), passionately noted, “The conference was a powerful reminder of the dedication and enthusiasm among diverse experts eager to enhance the lives of lung cancer patients. The extensive discussions solidified our collaborative networks and reinforced our commitment to delivering world-class patient care.”

The McGill RUISSS Lung Cancer Network continues to assert its leadership through a potent mix of innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in patient care. This impressive gathering not only celebrated the advancements made but also paved the way for future breakthroughs in the treatment and care of lung cancer, reminding us that together, we can make a profound difference.