Oncology and Solid Tumor Research

At Az Maria Middelares Gent, the strongest activity is in oncology, with many studies focused on common and advanced cancers. Research covers breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, urothelial cancer, prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, and colorectal cancer, often aiming to test new treatments and improve outcomes for patients with difficult-to-treat disease.

  • Advanced and metastatic cancer care, including studies in lung, breast, ovarian, and urothelial cancers
  • Evaluation of newer cancer therapies designed to improve survival and disease control
  • Research in biomarker-guided and personalized treatment approaches for solid tumors

These trials reflect a broad effort to expand treatment options for both early and advanced neoplasms, with a strong focus on better disease control and longer-term benefit.

Breast Cancer and Women’s Oncology

The site is active in breast cancer research, including HER2-positive, hormone receptor-positive, and triple negative breast cancer. Studies also include early-stage and metastatic disease, with the goal of improving treatment effectiveness and refining care after surgery or in advanced settings.

  • Testing new treatment combinations for HER2-positive and HER2-expressing breast cancer
  • Studies in early-stage breast cancer to reduce recurrence risk after surgery
  • Trials for metastatic and high-risk disease aimed at improving disease-free and progression-free survival

This area of research supports more personalized care for patients with breast neoplasms, especially where standard options may be limited or need improvement.

Urologic Cancers and Genitourinary Oncology

Another major focus is urothelial carcinoma, including bladder cancer in non-muscle-invasive, muscle-invasive, locally advanced, and metastatic forms. The site also studies prostate cancer, including castration-sensitive and castration-resistant disease, with trials designed to improve treatment response and delay progression.

  • Bladder cancer studies exploring better local and systemic treatment strategies
  • Prostate cancer trials assessing therapies for advanced and recurrent disease
  • Research into treatment options for patients with biomarker-defined or high-risk genitourinary cancers

These studies aim to improve outcomes in genitourinary malignancies through more effective and targeted approaches.

Gastroenterology and Liver Disease

Clinical research at the site also includes inflammatory bowel disease and chronic liver disease. Trials involve Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, NASH, and MASH, with a focus on controlling inflammation, protecting liver function, and improving long-term disease management.

  • Studies in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis aimed at better symptom and inflammation control
  • Liver disease research in NASH and MASH to assess disease improvement and prevent progression
  • Work on complications of cirrhosis, including prevention of esophageal varices

This portfolio shows a strong interest in both digestive system diseases and metabolic liver disorders, with the goal of improving everyday care and long-term outcomes.

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research

The site participates in studies on cardiovascular disease, atherosclerotic disease, heart failure, aortic valve disease, and hypertension. Several trials also address elevated lipoprotein(a) and overall risk reduction, reflecting a focus on preventing major cardiac and vascular events.

  • Trials testing strategies to reduce stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular complications
  • Research in blood pressure control, including difficult-to-treat hypertension
  • Studies in valve disease and cardiac surgery aimed at improving patient recovery and safety

At Az Maria Middelares Gent, this area connects prevention, treatment optimization, and better management of chronic circulatory disorders.

Respiratory, Immune, and Inflammatory Conditions

Research also extends to non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer, COPD, asthma, and pneumonia, alongside immune-mediated disorders such as psoriasis and spondyloarthritis. These trials often aim to improve treatment effectiveness, safety, or disease control in conditions that can significantly affect daily life.

  • Respiratory studies in lung cancer, COPD, asthma, and severe pneumonia
  • Immune and inflammatory disease trials in psoriasis and arthritis-related conditions
  • Research focused on reducing symptoms and improving quality of life in chronic disease

This mix of studies highlights the site’s broader interest in immune system processes and respiratory tract diseases, beyond its core cancer program.