Ben Chew, MD
Assistant Professor
Department of Urologic Sciences, UBC
phone: 604 875-5003
ben.chew(at)ubc.ca
Kidney Stones
Dr. Chew’s research focuses on how kidney stones form and in particular intestinal absorption of minerals that can form kidney stones (calcium and oxalate). His research focuses on genetically modifying bacteria normally used to make yogurt to express a naturally occurring enzyme that breaks down oxalate, thus preventing its absorption into the body where it can combine with calcium to form kidney stones. This novel type of therapy could be administered in yogurt and help patients prevent painful future kidney stone episodes.
Dr. Chew’s other area of research is in the area of biomaterials as the pertain to urinary devices. He is investigating new coatings and special drug-eluting materials for urinary catheters and stents in an attempt to make them more biocompatible and reduce device-related infection, encrustation, and patient discomfort.
Education
Fellowship - Urology - University of Western Ontario
FRCSC - Urology - University of Toronto
MD - University of British Columbia
MSc - Physiology - Queen's University, Ontario
BSc - Life Sciences - Queen's University, Ontario