15 years of philanthropy and progress in GI health: Dr. Charles Bernstein’s impact as Bingham Chair

The Bingham Chair in Gastroenterology was established in 2009 with the vision of advancing critical research and improving gastrointestinal (GI) health in Manitoba and beyond. Supported by the generosity of the Bingham family and several local donors, the chair’s goal is to foster breakthroughs in understanding and treating gastrointestinal diseases.

As the Bingham Chair at UM for the past 15 years, Dr. Charles Bernstein has become a pioneering figure in the field of GI health, particularly in the study of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) — a condition affecting more than 322,600 Canadians and one of the most common chronic immune-mediated illnesses in Canada.  

Bernstein’s research, which focuses on unravelling the complex causes and impacts of IBD, has improved the lives of thousands of patients and earned international recognition, including ranking in the top 0.05% of all scholars worldwide.

The distinguished professor of internal medicine at the Max Rady College of Medicine has spearheaded numerous outpatient programs designed to provide accessible and holistic care for IBD patients. As a proud born-and-raised Winnipegger, he continues to put Manitoba on the map as a global leader in GI research and patient care. 

A visionary in gastroenterology research 

Bernstein’s tenure as the Bingham Chair has been marked by an ambitious research agenda that tackles the genetic, environmental and microbial factors contributing to the development and progression of IBD. A strong advocate for multidisciplinary collaboration, he has led initiatives that combine clinical research with innovative public health strategies.

His emphasis on community-based support reflects his deep commitment to improving quality of life for individuals facing chronic GI conditions, a cause affecting nearly one in five Canadians. 

Among his many achievements, Bernstein co-founded the UM IBD Clinical and Research Centre, a world-class program that has made pivotal strides in the study and treatment of GI diseases. His research into environmental triggers of IBD, such as diet and antibiotic use, has had a profound impact on understanding how these diseases develop, allowing for more personalized and precise treatment plans. 

Bernstein has made several notable contributions to the field of gastroenterology, including: 

• Environmental Risk Factors and IBD: Bernstein has led several large-scale studies exploring environmental risk factors for IBD, providing insight into how modern lifestyle factors, such as diet and antibiotic use, influence the incidence and course of GI diseases. His work has highlighted the role of environmental influences on genetic predispositions, offering more comprehensive approaches to prevention and treatment. 

• Mental Health and IBD: Bernstein’s research also explores the intersection of mental health and IBD. He has contributed significantly to advancing the understanding of the psychosocial aspects of living with IBD. His work highlights the importance of mental health and quality of life in managing chronic diseases, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care that goes beyond addressing physical symptoms. (To learn more, you can watch UM Knowledge Exchange, where Bernstein and other UM researchers share insights into the fascinating connection between the brain and the gut in the context of health and IBD.) 

• Long-Term Impact of IBD: Through his research into the long-term effects of IBD, including cancer risk, fatigue and the impact on work-life balance, Bernstein has provided crucial data that guides clinical practice, improving the lives of patients with chronic conditions. He was also instrumental in leading population-based studies that track the prevalence and incidence of IBD over time, providing valuable data to global health organizations. 

• Outpatient Programs: Understanding the need for specialized care outside of hospital settings, Bernstein initiated several outpatient programs aimed at providing continuous, personalized care for IBD patients.  

Shaping the future of GI research at UM 

While Bernstein’s work has already had a transformative impact, there is still much to learn about IBD and gastrointestinal diseases. His research continues to focus on discovering new therapies, refining treatment protocols and finding ways to improve early diagnosis.

Supporting the Bingham Chair in Gastroenterology contributes to a brighter future for health care, advancing essential research that impacts the lives of countless people worldwide who live with IBD and other gastrointestinal disorders.  

At the University of Manitoba, Bisons are at the centre of health care, finance, Reconciliation and so much more. Wherever there’s a challenge, you’ll find UM alumni leading the charge. Explore the Bisons at the Centre campaign and meet the alumni shaping Manitoba and beyond. 

Haley Proctor