The M. H. Mohseni Institute of Urologic Sciences has officially launched within the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, marking a significant advancement in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of urologic diseases.
The institute will bear the name of Mr. Mohammad H. Mohseni in recognition of his transformational $20 million gift to VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s landmark Urologic Sciences campaign, which saw hundreds of donors come together to raise $65 million in less than two years. Building on the global reputation of the Vancouver Prostate Centre, the campaign will see the creation of many new research centres that bring the same world-leading care to other areas of urologic disease.
Urologic diseases, which affect the urinary tract, kidneys, bladder, prostate and reproductive organs, impact a majority of British Columbians over the course of their lives. In Canada, the health care costs of urologic diseases exceed $20 billion annually. Prostate cancer alone accounts for nearly $900 million of these costs, highlighting the urgent need for innovation and advancement.
Philanthropic support through VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation has been multiplied many times over by funding from both the federal and provincial governments and competitive granting agencies to create the institute. This collaborative initiative positions Vancouver as a global leader in urologic care, integrating cutting-edge research and translating groundbreaking discoveries into world-class care.
As part of the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, the M. H. Mohseni Institute of Urologic Sciences is committed to attracting top talent, fostering a highly collaborative and technologically advanced environment. It will be home to six specialized centres, each dedicated to advancing research and clinical care in its specific area of focus:
- Vancouver Prostate Centre
- Centre for Kidney Stones and Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Centre for Functional Urology and Reconstructive Surgery
- Centre for Kidney Transplantation and Immunology
- Reproductive and Sexual Medicine Centre
- Centre for Adolescent and Transitional Urology
Researchers and clinicians at the institute work together to develop innovative diagnostic, therapeutic and preventative solutions that address the full range of urologic conditions. A key mission is to accelerate the translation of scientific breakthroughs into clinical practice and improve the health and quality of life for everyone living in British Columbia.
The creation of the M. H. Mohseni Institute of Urologic Sciences marks the culmination of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s Urologic Sciences campaign. Co-chaired by Dr. Larry Goldenberg (CM, OBC), Founding Director, Vancouver Prostate Centre, and Mr. Rod & Mrs. Jeannie Senft (OC), who have been grateful patients and supporters, the campaign launched in July 2022 with a goal to amplify clinical care, research, and education across urologic diseases.
About the Donor:
Mr. Mohammad H. Mohseni is a first-generation Canadian who immigrated to Canada in 1981. An engineer by education and profession, Mr. Mohseni created and grew a family-owned business, ECS Electrical Cable Supply, into a global company headquartered in Richmond. ECS has been named one of “Canada’s Best Managed Companies” for 13 consecutive years, achieving Platinum Designation in Deloitte’s leading business awards program.
Inspired by the values and philanthropic traditions of his father and great-grandfather, Mr. Mohseni established the Mohammad H. Mohseni Charitable Foundation to further enhance the wellbeing of the Iranian and Canadian communities with a focus on innovative advancements in health and education. He has been a consistent supporter of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation for more than a decade, contributing to areas such as men’s health and glaucoma research and committing more than $21.7 million to date.
