BC Cancer – Abbotsford’s Revolutionary New Programs

BC Cancer – Abbotsford is making remarkable strides in cancer treatment with the launch of two groundbreaking advanced care programs, significantly enhancing the options available to patients in the Fraser region. Thanks to an impressive $2 million in donations from the BC Cancer Foundation, the center has unveiled a high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy suite, which is now available for prostate cancer patients, along with a specialized oral oncology clinic aimed at improving comprehensive care for all cancer patients.

Dr. Evgeny Sadikov, the executive medical director at BC Cancer – Abbotsford, expressed his enthusiasm: “These new programs represent a major leap forward in cancer care for patients in the Fraser Valley. From advanced brachytherapy for prostate cancer to comprehensive oral oncology services, we are expanding access to innovative treatments that improve health and quality of life.”

High-Dose Rate Brachytherapy: A Local Breakthrough in Targeted Cancer Treatment

The newly implemented HDR brachytherapy at BC Cancer – Abbotsford offers a sophisticated form of internal radiation therapy, where catheters are precisely placed at the tumor site. This innovative technique not only enhances treatment efficacy but also minimizes the risk of damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Previously confined to treating gynecological cancers, this expansion now allows local prostate cancer patients to receive cutting-edge treatment without the burden of traveling long distances, which can often exacerbate the stress associated with cancer care. Remarkably, patients undergoing HDR brachytherapy need only 1-2 treatment sessions, compared to more frequent visits that other treatment methods require.

Oral Oncology Clinic: Revitalizing Patient Lives with Comprehensive Care

Recognizing the oral health challenges many cancer patients face, the new Oral Oncology and Dentistry Clinic aims to tackle these issues head-on. This comprehensive facility will conduct thorough exams, provide dental rehabilitation, utilize on-site Cone Beam CT imaging, and offer direct access to intricate surgical care. The clinic anticipates serving over 3,000 patient visits annually, meaning no more lengthy travels to BC Cancer – Surrey for specialized oral health treatments. This improvement ensures timely access to necessary care, biopsies, and surgeries, significantly alleviating the strain on patients and their families.

Kirk Dobson, a throat cancer survivor who benefitted from the dentistry program shared an emotional testament to its impact: “I owe so much thanks to the dentistry team. It brings tears to my eyes, what an amazing feeling to have this smile again! Life is great, I take time to smell the roses, I enjoy life.”

Transformative Philanthropy: A Gift of Hope

The ambitious expansions at BC Cancer – Abbotsford were made possible by an astounding $1.9 million in funding from the generous donors of the BC Cancer Foundation. Kristina Lebed, the Foundation’s executive director for the Fraser region, highlighted the significance of this investment: “Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our donor community, families in the Fraser region now have greater access to life-changing cancer care, closer to home. This investment isn’t just about new equipment – it’s about giving hope and improving quality of life for people facing cancer.”

Looking ahead, the BC Cancer Foundation is committed to further enhancing cancer care by fundraising for the establishment of two state-of-the-art BC Cancer centres in the Fraser region, including a goal of $30 million for a new center in Surrey and an additional $10 million for the BC Cancer – Burnaby McCarthy Centre.

These remarkable advancements in cancer care underscore the powerful impact of community support and philanthropy in transforming healthcare for local patients. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn more about these life-changing initiatives and how you can contribute!