Alamos Gold Establishes New Research Chair to Combat Gastrointestinal Cancers

Alamos Gold Inc. has made a significant contribution to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, establishing the inaugural Alamos Gold Chair in Gastrointestinal Surgical Oncology. This initiative aims to enhance research efforts in understanding, diagnosing, and treating gastrointestinal cancers, with a commitment of $2 million over ten years.

Key Takeaways

• Alamos Gold contributes $2 million to establish a research chair focused on gastrointestinal cancers.
• Dr. Catherine O’Brien appointed as the inaugural chair, effective August 1, 2024.
• Research will focus on early detection, treatment development, and understanding cancer genetics.

A Major Step Forward in Cancer Research

On September 20, 2024, Alamos Gold announced its partnership with The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation to create a new research chair dedicated to gastrointestinal cancers. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to improve cancer research and patient outcomes in Canada.

The newly established Alamos Gold Chair in Gastrointestinal Surgical Oncology will be led by Dr. Catherine O’Brien, who has been appointed for an initial five-year term. This role is pivotal in advancing research that targets various gastrointestinal cancers, including those of the stomach, liver, pancreas, colorectal region, esophagus, and small intestine.

The Impact of Gastrointestinal Cancers

Gastrointestinal cancers represent a significant health challenge, with over 30,000 Canadians diagnosed each year. Key statistics include:

• Colorectal Cancer: Approximately 26,000 cases annually, making it one of the most common cancers in Canada.
• Pancreatic Cancer: Affects about 6,000 Canadians each year, known for its aggressive nature and low survival rates.
• Other Cancers: Stomach, liver, and esophageal cancers also contribute significantly to the cancer burden in the country.

Research Initiatives Supported by the Chair

The funding provided by Alamos Gold will support various research initiatives, including:

1. Clinical Trials: Testing new treatment methods and therapies.
2. Biomarker Discovery: Identifying biological markers that can help in early detection and treatment.
3. Genetic and Environmental Studies: Investigating the factors that contribute to the development of gastrointestinal cancers.

A Commitment to Community Health

John McCluskey, President & CEO of Alamos Gold, emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, "This funding represents a significant step forward in the research of gastrointestinal cancers. By supporting advanced research, the new Chair will aim to improve early detection, develop more effective treatments, and ultimately save lives."

The establishment of this research chair not only highlights Alamos Gold's commitment to corporate social responsibility but also aims to bring hope to patients and their families affected by these challenging diseases.

About Alamos Gold

Alamos Gold is a Canadian-based intermediate gold producer with operations in North America, including the Young-Davidson mine and the Island Gold District in Ontario, as well as the Mulatos District in Mexico. The company is dedicated to sustainable development and employs over 2,400 people.

About The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation

The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation is Canada’s leading cancer charity, dedicated to funding research and clinical care at one of the world’s top cancer research centers. Through various initiatives, the foundation aims to accelerate cancer research and improve patient outcomes both in Canada and globally.

Sources

• Alamos Gold Helps to Create Inaugural Research Chair to Better Detect and Treat Gastrointestinal Cancers, by @GlobeNewswire, CEO.CA.