Brain Research: The cornerstone for Canada’s future social-economic wealth
At the annual Canadian Science Policy Centre conference, CBRS convened a panel on the transformative potential of brain research. Panelists discussed the urgent need to harness Canada’s expertise in brain research to address pressing global challenges related to neurological disorders, brain injuries, mental illness, and addiction, highlighting the implications for individual health, societal well-being, and economic prosperity.
The panelists were:
- Moderator: Dr. Rose Goldstein, MD – Past Chair, Research Canada Board of Directors; Professor of Medicine, McGill University
- Julian Karaguesian – Director for Research, Economic Policy at the Institute for Research on Public Policy
- Dr. Cedric Bisson, MD, JD – Partner, Teralys Capital
- Dr. Michael Hill, MD, FRCPC, CM – President, Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation; Professor, Cummings School of Medicine, University of Calgary
- Dr. Allison Sekuler, PhD – President & Chief Scientist, Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation; President & Chief Scientist, Baycrest
- Dr. James N. Reynolds, PhD – Chief Scientific Officer, Kids Brain Health Network; Professor, Queens University
- Dr. Javeria Hashmi, PhD Associate Professor, Department of Anesthesia, Pain Management and Perioperative Medicine, Dalhousie University
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- We are verging on a new era of therapeutic breakthroughs in brain health that promise to reshape the future of millions of people worldwide. Canada must play an active role for our nation to realize the health, social, and economic benefits for our own diverse population.
- Brain conditions have global significance as they currently constitute the majority of disabilities in Canada and worldwide, and this will only increase with aging populations.
- The research agenda is inseparable from the clinical and care agenda. An investment in brain research is a transition from a reactive “sick care system” to a genuine healthcare system.
- Effective understanding and intervention calls for a comprehensive approach to brain research and health that extends across the entire lifespan and recognizes the interconnectedness of brain disorders.
- A coordinated, transdisciplinary brain research ecosystem is needed to advance brain research and ensure that the resulting innovations and treatments are accessible to the Canadian public.
- “Brain Health” is a fundamental human right that should align with Canada’s international commitments as well as with Federal laws and policies.
- Sustained investment in a brain research ecosystem yields significant impact on economic prosperity, societal well-being, and healthcare sustainability by driving innovation and generating solutions that extend well beyond the realm of public health.
Listen to a recording of the panel on the CSPC Conference Website.