The Vitally Important: National Women’s Health Summit brings together leading researchers, clinicians, innovators and advocates from across the country for two days of conversation, collaboration and action. This is where we begin rewriting the story — together.
Taking place: Toronto, March 24-25, 2026
The Pan-Canadian Women’s Health Coalition (PCWHC) will be featured in panels and conversations on cardiovascular health for women; novel diagnosis and treatment for chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis; new technology improving support during the perinatal period; chronic pain and autoimmune conditions; addressing misinformation in women’s health with research, and more.In addition to this outstanding lineup, Dr. Hayley Wickenheiser — physician, coach and four-time Olympic gold medallist — will be attending the Day 1 (March 24) evening reception as a special guest.
Getting to the Heart of Domestic Abuse: Identifying the molecular mechanisms of heart disease in association with physical and psychological stress
Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a national and global epidemic with long-term health consequences that extend beyond physical and psychological harm. Emerging research shows that people who experience IPV face a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including stroke, heart attack and heart failure, often years after the abuse has occurred, with important differences between females and males.
Through their research project, Dr. Glen Pyle and his team are uncovering why this happens at a molecular level. By identifying how the heart changes following IPV, they aim to understand why cardiovascular risk increases and how these disease pathways differ between males and females. This work lays the foundation for novel therapies to reduce risk and for the development of biomarkers that could help identify those most vulnerable to cardiovascular disease.
But research means nothing if it stays in the lab. Closing the knowledge gap in women’s health requires both science and action. That’s why they’re translating their findings to the women and health care providers who need them most.
What are the unique mental health needs of women in correctional and forensic mental health settings? A virtual community of practice model
In Canada, approximately 3,600 women are incarcerated on any given day, many of whom face complex and overlooked mental health challenges rooted in trauma, systemic marginalization and violence. Given their unique and underserved mental health needs, gender-responsive care is crucial for supporting these women and fostering healthier, more resilient communities.
Dr. Stephanie Penney and her team are working to change that. Their research focuses on the mental health needs of women involved in the forensic mental health and criminal justice systems. Rooted in meaningful partnerships with women who have lived experience of the justice system, mental health challenges and substance use, the project creates space for open dialogue, trust-building and mutual learning through focus groups and collaborative engagement. Together, the team is advancing awareness, equity, and promoting excellence in mental health care and recovery for women in the forensic and criminal justice systems in Canada.
Listening to our Women: Understanding barriers, enablers and strategies to cervical cancer screening uptake using HPV DNA self-sampling through participatory, community-based approaches among Indigenous women living remotely in Ontario
Dr. Yeates has been a leading investigator in projects employing mobile health (mHealth), artificial intelligence (AI), and telemedicine to improve cervical cancer screening accuracy and accessibility. Her collaborations include the PAVE (HPV–Automated Visual Evaluation [AVE]) strategy, an integrated, multicountry approach designed to improve cervical cancer screening, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where access to traditional screening is limited. By integrating accessible self-sampling, rapid molecular testing and automated visual evaluation, PAVE bridges the gap between screening and treatment, minimizing loss to follow up and unnecessary procedures.
With funding from the Canadian Institutes for Health Research, the team is now looking to implement the PAVE strategy in Canada and to establish a community-led, community and health system-based program of research that will bring PAVE 2.0 to remote and rural Indigenous communities in Northern Ontario, Canada.
Submit your Hub updates or activities by the 15th of each month to be featured in our newsletter! Submissions can be made through our intake form or by contacting Deborah Dahan, Senior Knowledge Mobilization Officer. You can also add events to our calendar at any time.
Let us know what your Hub is up to — we would love to highlight your work!
Please invite all members of your Hub, community partners or others who may be interested to sign up for this newsletter here and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Bluesky.
Published:
March 11, 2026
Categories:
SHARE THIS POST:
