Released on March 17, 2017
Patients receiving radiation therapy at the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency’s Allan Blair Cancer Centre in Regina now have access to the most advanced equipment available, with the $5.08 million installation of a TrueBeam linear accelerator (linac) and completion of the associated renovations. The provincial government has also approved $3.8 million for a similar replacement linac in Saskatoon.“Cancer has impacted the lives of many people in Saskatchewan, my family and myself included,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Greg Ottenbreit said. “This investment will provide patients with more advanced and accurate radiation therapy, and reflects our government’s commitment to accessible treatment.”
The TrueBeam can deliver higher doses of radiation more quickly and with greater precision. It also provides better integration with imaging systems than any current or previous machines used. The customizable system will allow the Cancer Agency to provide cancer patients with leading edge treatment techniques.
“Installing new linear accelerators in Regina and Saskatoon will make a difference in the lives of cancer patients,” Interim President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jon Tonita said. “This equipment opens the door to new treatment possibilities for cancers in the lung, breast, prostate and spinal regions.”
Each cancer centre houses three linear accelerators, which have an operating life of about 10 years. The Saskatoon Cancer Centre already has one TrueBeam and the oldest machine there will be replaced with this technology in the future.During 2015-16, more than 35,000 radiotherapy sessions were conducted in Saskatchewan.
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For more information, contact:
Shirley Xie
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: Shirley.Xie@health.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-3594
Gladys Wasylenchuk
Saskatchewan Cancer Agency
Regina
Phone: 639-625-2011
Email: gladys.wasylenchuk@saskcancer.ca
Cell: 306-533-9215