DISP-12. BRAIN CANCER CANADA FUNDS CRITICALLY NEEDED RESEARCH AND ADVOCATES FOR PATIENTS, WITH THE AIM TO IMPROVE OUTCOMES FOR CANADIANS DIAGNOSED WITH PRIMARY MALIGNANT BRAIN TUMOURS

Abstract Brain Cancer Canada (BCC) is a national, volunteer-driven charity supporting paediatric and adult primary malignant brain tumour research and patient advocacy. To achieve these goals BCC 1) awards grants to Canadian doctors and scientists advancing brain cancer research, and 2) advocates for equitable pharmacare for brain cancer patients. BCC is committed to funding innovative research projects, with the aim to improve treatment options for patients. Led by its Scientific Advisory Committee, submissions are reviewed, screened, and undergo a systematic evaluation by the panel. Recommendations on successful proposals are provided to the board for approval. This May, the charity awarded 5 research grants, totaling $380,000 CAD. These projects include supporting the acquisition of a next-generation DNA Sequencer, advancing FET-PET/MRI imaging, pioneering a novel approach to combat Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), developing a novel dual-hit therapeutic approach for glioblastoma, and other projects focusing on precision medicine. BCC has taken a deliberate and firm stand in highlighting the drug coverage disparities that exist for patients afflicted with brain cancer BCC’s Pharmacare Advocacy Committee has found that disparities exist owing to the lack of a national drug program, and a patchwork of alternative schemes varying by province/territory. These findings are well documented by others. For example, our research shows that temozolomide (TMZ), the global standard of care for treating gliomas, is not covered in 4 provinces. Our pharmacare research on TMZ and 5 other drugs further confirm the disparity in coverage that hinders patient welfare and imposes a confusing and detrimental strain on the healthcare system. With, the dependence on take-home medication increasing, it is critical we take immediate action in supporting this marginalized group. With the support of The Society for Neuro-Oncology, Brain Cancer Canada will be better positioned to reach its goals and support people affected by primary malignant brain tumours.