Released on July 10, 2000
Cancer patients will soon receive a new and better form of radiation therapy atthe Saskatoon Cancer Centre.
A new linear accelerator and three-dimensional treatment planning system will
offer cancer patients improved radiation treatment for certain cancers, such as
prostate.
"Cancer patients in our province deserve the most effective treatment
available," Health Minister Pat Atkinson said. "This year's provincial health
budget included $5.2 million for improved cancer services, including this new
equipment."
"The linear accelerator and three-dimensional treatment planning system will
not only provide the latest in cancer treatment in this province, but will also
greatly improve patients' quality of life," Saskatchewan Cancer Agency CEO Bob
Allen said. The three-dimensional system will allow a higher dose of radiation
to the tumour itself and a smaller dose to normal tissue. This will increase
the chance of tumour control, and decrease short- and long-term treatment side
effects.
Saskatchewan is fortunate to have highly-qualified radiation therapists who
operate the linear accelerator and are members of the cancer treatment team.
These professionals are currently in high demand across the country.
Saskatchewan Health and the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency will continue to work to
maintain adequate staffing levels of these professionals in our province.
"The addition of this second high energy linear accelerator should decrease
waiting times for treatment of deep seated tumours, as long as we can keep the
radiation therapists and radiation oncologists we need," Atkinson said.
The new equipment cost about $3 million. Saskatchewan Health will provide $1.5
million and the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency will be responsible for the
remainder.
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For more information, contact:
Jeff Brown Glenda Little
Communications Branch Communications Consultant
Saskatchewan Health Saskatchewan Cancer Agency
Regina Regina
Phone: (306) 787-4088 Phone: (306) 791-2767