Think Tank - October 23rd, 2026

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Date / Time:
Date
October 23rd 2026 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Location:
Location
Zoom
Windsor, ON, CA
Rates:
Think Tank - October 23, 2026: Free
Register

 

Biology, Prevention, and Management of Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy
Vikas Garg, MD
Windsor Regional Hospital

Chemotherapy‑induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a frequent and often persistent side effect of oxaliplatin and taxane treatment. This presentation introduces a research program at Windsor Regional Cancer Centre focused on improving CIPN prevention, early detection, and management. The team is developing a practical CIPN risk‑prediction model based on patient‑reported symptoms and treatment factors. They also plan a pilot feasibility trial testing peri‑infusion compression as an inexpensive, scalable prevention strategy. The presenter is seeking input to refine research questions and strengthen both the prediction model and trial design. He hopes to connect with multidisciplinary collaborators interested in CIPN, symptom management, oncology nursing, rehabilitation, and community‑based cancer research.

 

Improving Health Equity Among Older Adults with Limited English Proficiency
Wansoo Park, PhD
School of Social Work, University of Windsor

Building on a successful SSHRC-funded research project, this presenter will explore opportunities to improve health equity for older adults with limited English proficiency in Windsor-Essex. The presenter is seeking input on community needs, barriers to accessing health and social services, and potential partnerships to support future research and program development. Participants with expertise in seniors' health, primary care, newcomer and immigrant services, language and cultural supports, community outreach, and health system navigation are encouraged to attend.

 

From Data to Action: Solving Healthcare and Community Challenges through Analytics and Optimization
Mehdi Najafi, PhD
Mechanical, Automotive & Materials Engineering, University of Windsor

Many of today's healthcare and community challenges involve complex systems, uncertainty, and competing demands. This presentation will introduce participants to innovative approaches that combine data analytics, machine learning, and mathematical optimization to support better decision-making.

The presenter will share examples of past projects in healthcare operations, logistics, transportation, and resource planning, to demonstrate how these tools have been used to improve patient flow, optimize service delivery, strengthen supply chains, allocate resources more effectively, and support evidence-informed decision-making. The breakout discussion will focus on hearing about current challenges participants are facing in their organizations to identify opportunities for collaborative solutions.

 

If you have any questions/ideas for our Think Tanks or would like to present at a future Think Tank, please contact us at wesparkhealth@uwindsor.ca. To learn more about these events, please visit our Think Tank webpage!



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