Latest from Alison Northcott
10 years after deadly train disaster, Lac-Mégantic still grieves for those who were lost
Forty-seven people died after a train carrying crude oil derailed and exploded in the Quebec town on July 6, 2013. Some businesses have been rebuilt and plans for a rail bypass are proceeding, but many residents are still struggling to move forward.
Tuberculosis rising after COVID-19 pandemic redirected services, say Canadian health officials
Canada's longstanding efforts to eliminate tuberculosis suffered a setback as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Canadian health officials. In some areas, the TB response was reduced as resources were redirected.
Spike in severe illness caused by strep A bacteria is 'global phenomenon' — including in Canada
As various countries continue to report high levels of invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections — which cause severe illness, and in rare cases death within days — Canadian physicians are also raising alarms over a rise in serious cases this season.
Canadian researchers find new gene mutation that could be linked to increased breast cancer risk
A group of researchers led by a Canadian scientist have identified a rare gene mutation that could be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. In a peer-reviewed study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics, the researchers identified a mutation in a gene called ATRIP.
Analysis
'Tranq dope': Dangerous animal tranquillizer spreading in Canada's street drugs
Canada's highly toxic illicit drug supply is worsening with the emergence of xylazine, a dangerous and unpredictable animal tranquillizer that's putting drug users' lives at risk in alarming new ways.
Life-changing surgery allows Quebec woman paralyzed from chest down to use hands again
Jeanne Carrière had been unable to use her hands or lower body after breaking her neck in 2021. In July 2022, she underwent nerve transfer surgery at Montreal’s Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital, regaining some of what she lost — including hope.
Canadian teens still struggling with mental health even as pandemic wanes
Three years into the pandemic, many Canadian teens are still struggling with their mental health, and pediatric centres are reporting increases in hospitalizations and emergency room visits for conditions such as eating disorders, anxiety and suicide attempts.
Will Canada follow the U.S.'s aggressive new approach to treat childhood obesity?
A shift in treating childhood obesity in the U.S. focuses on early interventions and can involve weight-loss drugs or surgery. Some Canadian experts say it's an effective approach, but others worry it could turn attention away from prevention.
Ukrainian refugees turn to dance as they adjust to new life in Canada
More than 700,000 Ukrainians and their family members have applied for special temporary resident visas to Canada since the Russian invasion, but experts say mental health supports that suit their needs are in short supply. Community groups are stepping in to help.
Quebec tech companies warn new language law could hurt recruitment, damage economy
The leaders of dozens of Quebec technology companies are warning Premier François Legault that the province's new language law, known as Bill 96, will make it hard to recruit talent and threatens to do "enormous damage to the province's economy."