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Mathematical model could predict best way to prevent tuberculosis in Canada’s north


December 30, 2014

Dr. Gonzalo Alvarez is co-leading a research study that uses mathematical modelling to compare different approaches for preventing tuberculosis (TB) among aboriginal people in Canada’s north. TB is a major public health threat in this region, with an incidence rate that is 60 times higher than the rest of the country. The mathematical model will compare the costs and benefits of a TB-specific prevention program (that focuses on enhanced diagnosis and treatment) with a more general prevention program (that focuses on reducing TB risk factors such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, diabetes and overcrowded housing). Dr. Kevin Schwartzman from the McGill University Health Centre is co-leading the project, which received $142,000 in the last operating grant competition from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. Further details are available in CIHR’s Funded Research Database.

Ottawa Hospital Research Institute


The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute is the research arm of The Ottawa Hospital and is an affiliated institute of the University of Ottawa, closely associated with its faculties of Medicine and Health Sciences. The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute includes more than 1,700 scientists, clinical investigators, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and staff conducting research to improve the understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of human disease. Support our research. Give to the Tender Loving Research campaign.

For further information, please contact


Paddy Moore
Communications and Public Relations
Ottawa Hospital Research Institute
Office: 613-737-8899 x73687
Cell: 613-323-5680
padmoore@ohri.ca