Dr. Cindy-Lee Dennis awarded Marcé Medal for perinatal mental health research

By Madison Thakore

Dr. Cindy-Lee Dennis, a researcher at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute and Women’s Health Research Chair at St. Michael’s Hospital and the University of Toronto, has been awarded the Marcé Medal by the International Marcé Society.

The International Marcé Society has recognized Dr. Dennis for her continued achievements and commitment to research in the field of perinatal and prenatal mental health in women. Dr. Dennis continues to advance research and become an influential leader in her field.

“I have always believed healthy moms lead to healthy babies,” says Dr. Dennis. “My research has always been dedicated to improving the lives of families. I am extremely honoured the Marcé Society has chosen to recognize my work. My goal is to continue providing improved care for families, especially regarding perinatal mental health.”

Dr. Dennis’ career extends beyond her perinatal mental health research. She is the principal investigator for six multi-site studies looking at various components of perinatal depression and breastfeeding practices. Dr. Dennis developed one of the most commonly used breastfeeding measurement tools in the world, the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale. She has more than 180 peer-reviewed publications to her name, is a co-investigator on more than 20 other studies, as well as a professor at the University of Toronto.

“Dr. Dennis had made tremendous contributions to research through her roles at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute and St. Michael’s Hospital,” says Dr. Patricia O’Campo, interim vice-president of research at St. Michael’s. “Dr. Dennis’ efforts greatly add to our commitment to improve patient care and treatment through research. She is an established leader in her field and is an exceptional representative for our research community.”

The International Marcé Society for Perinatal Mental Health is an international organization committed to the research and treatment of mental health in women before and after birth. The Marcé Medal is awarded every two years to an individual dedicated to supporting mental health research for prenatal and postpartum women, fathers and babies. It is awarded on behalf of the president of the society to an individual who contributes to such research and supports the missions and values of the society.

In addition to being presented the Marcé Medal, the society has invited Dr. Dennis to speak this September at the International Marcé Society Biennial Scientific Congress at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences in Bengaluru, India.

About St. Michael’s Hospital

St. Michael’s Hospital provides compassionate care to all who enter its doors. The hospital also provides outstanding medical education to future health care professionals in more than 29 academic disciplines. Critical care and trauma, heart disease, neurosurgery, diabetes, cancer care, care of the homeless and global health are among the Hospital’s recognized areas of expertise. Through the Keenan Research Centre and the Li Ka Shing International Healthcare Education Centre, which make up the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, research and education at St. Michael’s Hospital are recognized and make an impact around the world. Founded in 1892, the hospital is fully affiliated with the University of Toronto.

St. Michael’s Hospital with Providence Healthcare and St. Joseph’s Health Centre now operate under one corporate entity as of August 1, 2017. United, the three organizations serve patients, residents and clients across the full spectrum of care, spanning primary care, secondary community care, tertiary and quaternary care services to post-acute through rehabilitation, palliative care and long-term care, while investing in world-class research and education.