New Canada Research Chair Appointed at Women’s College Hospital

Dr. Husam Abdel-Qadir, cardiologist at Women’s College Hospital (WCH) and scientist at WCH Research & Innovation Institute, has been awarded a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) in Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Outcomes.

The Canada Research Chair Program funds top-tier researchers in academic institutions across Canada, allowing them to pursue cutting-edge research with substantial financial support. By drawing and retaining top-tier talent, the program enhances Canada’s capacity to generate internationally acclaimed research with global impact in areas like health, technology, sustainability and more.

Dr. Husam Abdel-Qadir working on an echocardiogram at Women’s College Hospital

As a CRC, Dr. Abdel-Qadir will lead research aimed at improving the management of cardiovascular risks associated with cancer treatments. “I aim to develop data-driven approaches to reduce heart disease risks from cancer treatment and ensure patients with heart disease receive the best possible care if they develop cancer,” he says. His work will help clinicians better assess risks and make more informed decisions about treatment options.

Dr. Abdel-Qadir and his team will also focus on atrial fibrillation, a heart arrhythmia that increases the risks of stroke and heart failure. Their research may lead to predictive models for cardiovascular disease following atrial fibrillation, allowing for preventive strategies.

In addition, he plans to study lipoprotein(a), a form of cholesterol, which was recently added to the list of tests covered by Ontario’s healthcare system. Dr. Abdel-Qadir aims to understand its clinical use and address racial differences, as Black and Brown individuals tend to have higher levels than White and East Asian populations. “We don’t know if these levels should be treated the same across all races or if people of West African descent need different risk thresholds,” he says.

“I feel extremely fortunate to receive the CRC,” Dr. Abdel-Qadir adds. “Professionally, it will give me the freedom to pursue more ambitious and innovative projects. It also makes me reflect on how fortunate I am to have received exceptional support and mentorship since starting my career at WCH. This award is more a reflection of that support than of me personally.”

Congratulations, Dr. Abdel-Qadir!