The Clinical Investigations Office (CIO) at CancerCare Manitoba provides the infrastructure for the majority of clinical research in both adult and pediatric cancer and also other related fields in the province of Manitoba. The CIO also acts as a resource in teaching and educating all related health care professionals and the general public.

The CIO was established at CancerCare Manitoba in the early 1960's. Over the years expansion has been dramatic. The majority of research studies coordinated by the CIO are conducted in collaboration with national or international co-operative cancer groups. Some studies are generated locally, while others are conducted in collaboration with the private sector.

The CIO co-ordinates many different types of research. Most deal with the treatment of cancer, and sometimes involve the assessment of newer drugs. A few studies relate to blood and marrow transplant non-malignant hematological disorders. Some research studies involve cancer prevention, while others evaluate the control of symptoms associated with cancer, the causes of cancer, or the long-term adverse effects of cancer treatment. In addition, research studies are being performed to obtain a better understanding of the biology of cancer cells. Most studies are subdivided into disease site groups.

The Clinical Investigations Office is located on the 2nd floor at CancerCare Manitoba. Additional units participating in CIO studies are located at the CCMB, St. Boniface Site, Oncology Unit and at the Oncology Unit, Victoria General Hospital. The CIO is comprised of a medical director, administrator, research nurses, clinical research professionals and secretarial support staff.

At present, the CIO has some 65 pediatric research studies and 87 adult studies open to patient accrual. Data continues to be collected on more than 2300 patients who were entered on current or previous research studies.

For further information contact the Clinical Investigations Office.