Helping Canadians navigate ALK‑positive cancer
Supporting Canadian patients, caregivers, and families through community, advocacy, research and education.
What is ALK‑positive cancer?
ALK‑positive cancer occurs when a naturally occurring gene in the body—called ALK (anaplastic lymphoma kinase)—undergoes a rare change. This change acts like a faulty instruction, causing cells to grow and multiply when they shouldn’t. Over time, this uncontrolled growth leads to cancer.
In lung cancer, ALK‑positive cases make up a distinct group almost exclusively within non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although relatively uncommon, ALK‑positive cancer behaves differently from other cancer types, which is why it responds best to a different kind of treatment.
Advanced targeted therapies
Fortunately, there are advanced targeted therapies designed specifically to block the faulty ALK signal. These treatments are taken as pills and work by slowing or even stopping the growth of cancer cells driven by the ALK fusion—without affecting healthy cells as much as traditional treatments often do.
Thanks to these therapies, many people with ALK‑positive cancer are able to live active, full lives. In Canada, commonly prescribed treatments include alectinib and lorlatinib. Research is also progressing rapidly, with promising new options like neladalkib by Nuvalent.
We envision a future where ALK‑positive cancer no longer exists
From Victoria to St. John’s, Toronto to Whitehorse—we’re building a connected, informed, and supported community across Canada. Our work is grounded in the four pillars of CARE.
Community
Connecting Canadians facing ALK-positive cancer, so everyone is supported.
Advocacy
Promoting better access to treatments and improved patient experiences.
Research
Supporting research efforts to improve treatment outcomes and move toward a cure.
Education
Offering trusted resources, expert-led webinars, and up-to-date information.
Get involved in the Canadian ALK-positive cancer community
No one should face ALK-positive cancer alone. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment, or supporting a loved one, there’s a place for you here.
Join our community
As a patient or caregiver, share experiences, ask questions, and connect with others who understand what you’re going through in this private community.
I learned more here about the human side than anywhere else. You have provided me and my family great comfort.
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Watch our recent webinar
Watch this discussion with Dr. Liu to learn about treatments, clinical trials, and the latest research impacting the ALK+ community in Canada.