The CAnadian Network for Psychedelic-Assisted Cancer Therapy (CAN-PACT): Building a Research, Practice and Policy Foundation
Project Overview
A new national initiative funded by the Canadian Cancer Society, the Canadian Network for Psychedelic-Assisted Cancer Therapy (CAN-PACT), is bringing together researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and people living with advanced cancer to explore the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy as a transformative approach to cancer care.
People with advanced cancer often experience profound emotional distress, including anxiety about end of life, fear of death, demoralization, and loss of hope. Emerging research suggests that psychedelic-assisted therapy, including psilocybin (the active compound in magic mushrooms), may offer fast-acting and long-lasting relief from these symptoms.
Although promising results have been seen in small U.S. studies, Canada currently lacks the research infrastructure, trained clinicians, and policy framework necessary to make this therapy accessible in public cancer care. CAN-PACT aims to fill this gap through a nationwide collaboration that will:
• Establish a Cross-Canada network of experts and stakeholders dedicated to psychedelic-assisted cancer therapy (PACT).
• Define key research priorities to advance the field.
• Build capacity for safe and effective delivery of PACT in public cancer centers.
• Conduct pilot studies and a large multisite clinical trial to assess the effectiveness of PACT for people with advanced cancer.
• Work to inform healthcare policies that could support the responsible integration of this therapy into Canadian cancer care.
By addressing research, training, and policy needs, CAN-PACT is laying the groundwork for a future where people with advanced cancer may have access to evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapy to relieve suffering and improve quality of life.
Principal Investigator
Linda Carlson , University of Calgary
Partners and Donors
Canadian Cancer Society