Sask. Cancer Agency’s new treatment may help 65% of cervical patients

Cervical cancer treatment in Saskatchewan just got a new targeted form a radiation therapy.

Patients can now receive new treatment known as the Interstitial High-Dose-Rate (HDR) Gynecological Brachytherapy program. It provides a safe, specialized, and targeted form of radiation therapy.

The treatment offered through the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, is available in Saskatoon and will eliminate the need for patients to travel out of the province.

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According to the organization, the treatment uses standard applicators with strategically placed interstitial needles providing precise, high-dose, radiation treatment for irregular sized tumours.

The first patient was treated last month and the province expects an estimated 80 procedures will be performed annually, benefiting about 20 people.

The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency predicts around 65 per cent of patients in the province with cervical cancer could benefit from the program.

Jocelyn Moore, a radiation oncologist for the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, said the treatment will ensure that care is more streamlined, allowing for more time to be dedicated to patients.

Team members involved in the Interstitial High-Dose-Rate Gynecological Brachytherapy program. (Saskatchewan Cancer Agency)

She noted the program’s benefits for physicians and believes it will help with recruitment and retention.

“My job satisfaction has improved instantly since being able to offer this,” she said.

“A real element of stress in our jobs was finding centers across the country to send these patients for this aspect of their treatment.”

Over the next few years, the program will be rolled out in three phases.

The first will focus on the introduction of hybrid therapy. Hybrid therapy combines the standard applicator with additional interstitial needles.

According to the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, additional phases will involve introducing different applicators to expand treatment options for vaginal cancers.

“Providing Saskatchewan cancer patients with world-class care and cutting-edge treatment options close to home remains a top priority for our government,” said Jeremy Cockrill, Saskatchewan’s health minister in a statement.

“We are dedicated to driving healthcare innovation that enhances patient outcomes and improves quality of life for all residents.”

The ministry of health has provided the program with $1.18 million in funding for operational and staffing costs.

While the treatment is initially centered in Saskatoon, the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency plans to expand the program into Regina.