Cancer
Find information about cancer, including learning from others who have experienced a similar diagnosis.
1. Information
- Visit HealthLine to learn more about various types of cancer and treatment options available.
You can also check your symptoms and explore options related to testing, surgery, and other related issues.
If you have any concerns, consult with your primary health care provider (family doctor, nurse practitioner, walk-in clinic).
2. Treatment
Visit the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency for:
- Information for new cancer patients,
- Treatment and referral services, and
- Counselling and support services.
Visit SaskSurgery.ca for:
- Cancer surgery wait times.
3. Breast Cancer
Providing timely access to breast health services to Saskatchewan patients is a priority. The Government of Saskatchewan is enhancing breast screening and breast cancer initiatives, including a phased in approach to lower the age for breast cancer screening age eligibility from 50 and older to include women aged 40 to 49.
The Breast Health Centre, located on the main floor of Saskatoon City Hospital, works closely with the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency (SCA) to offer the people of Saskatchewan the best up to date standard of care in breast health. On March 5, 2024, the Government of Saskatchewan also announced plans to create a Breast Health Centre in Regina. The centre, which will be located at Regina Centre Crossing on Albert Street, will be operated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and is expected to open its doors in the 2024-25 fiscal year.
Pathways to services:
- Breast Cancer Screening
In Saskatchewan, the Program for Breast Screening is operated collaboratively by the SHA and SCA. The SCA provides reporting, outreach, education, invitations, booking, and follow-ups with screening results. The SHA provides mammography exams and interpretation of the exam.
- In province breast diagnostic procedures
Diagnostic mammography is delivered by the SHA and community radiology clinics with advanced imaging and breast biopsy services provided by the SHA. The highest-risk patients have been identified and are receiving diagnostic care here in Saskatchewan. There is currently a wait list for diagnostic imaging in Regina and surrounding area. You may receive a call asking if you would like to travel to another centre in Saskatchewan, such as Saskatoon or Moose Jaw, to receive diagnostic tests.
- Out-of-province breast diagnostic procedures
To address the current backlog in breast cancer diagnostic services, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health is offering an out-of-province initiative for diagnostic procedures at a private diagnostic facility in Calgary.
Resources
- Types of Breast Cancer Screening tests
- Where Can I Go for a Mammogram?
- Breast Biopsy information
- Your Journey: A Guide for Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer manual and the videos provide comprehensive information for newly diagnosed women and those just beginning treatment for breast cancer (lymphedema).
4. Oral Cancer
Oral cancer refers to all cancers of the oral cavity, with most instances located on the sides of the tongue, floor of the mouth, and lips.
5. Prostate Cancer
Learn more about prostate cancer and the options for screening, diagnosis, and treatment from the Saskatchewan Surgical Initiative.
Prostate Cancer Patient Booklet
- Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Information for Patients
An overview of what to expect and some options available.
Prostate Cancer Fact Sheets
- Active Surveillance (Watchful Waiting): You and your doctor may choose to closely monitor your condition through "active surveillance."
- Brachytherapy: Brachytherapy is a form of radiation therapy used to treat prostate cancer.
- External Beam: External beam radiation therapy is a form of radiation treatment used to treat prostate cancer.
- Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy is a form of treatment used to control prostate cancer.
- Radical Prostatectomy: Radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat prostate cancer. It is an operation to remove the prostate gland.
- Prostate Biopsy and Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS): A transrectal ultrasound uses sound waves to take a picture of the prostate gland.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen Testing - Patient Information: The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a blood test used in combination with other information to screen for prostate cancer.
- Prostate-Specific Antigen Screening - Care Provider Information: Information to help primary care providers offer men information about the risks and benefits of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening and treatment for prostate cancer.