Vancouver (March 25, 2003): Steven Narod, an Investigator of the Canadian Genetic Diseases Network, has been appointed to a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair for Public Health Sciences. Dr. Narod, a recognized leader in the field of breast cancer genetics, will received the award over a seven-year period.

"This appointment to the Canada Research Chairs program recognizes Dr. Steven Narod as a world-leader in breast cancer genetics. The Canadian Genetic Diseases Network congratulates Dr. Narod for this accomplishment and acknowledges his contribution in making Canada a global leader in genetic research", stated Dr. Ron Woznow, CEO of the Canadian Genetic Diseases Network.

The Canada Research Chairs program is a $900 million infrastructure improvement program created by the federal government. The program aims to propel Canada to the highest levels of research excellence and to become a world-class research centre in the global, knowledge-based economy.

Dr. Steven Narod's work on identifying the link between mutations in the genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 and hereditary breast cancer has opened the door for diagnostic screening that will improved health outcomes for breast cancer patients. His new research is directed at translating genetic knowledge into effective prevention and management strategies for breast and ovarian cancer.

The Canadian Genetic Diseases Network is a non-profit organization and a member of the Networks of Centres of Excellence Program. Its mission is to be the primary catalyst in advancing Canada's scientific and commercial competitiveness in genetic research and the application of genetic discoveries to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of human disease.