Saskatchewan cervical cancer patients now have access to a specialized radiation therapy treatment previously only available out of province.
The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency (SCA) has launched the Interstitial High-Dose-Rate (HDR) Gynecological Brachytherapy program, a targeted form of radiation therapy considered the gold standard of care. The program eliminates the need for travel, allowing patients to receive advanced treatment closer to home.
"Providing Saskatchewan cancer patients with world-class care and cutting-edge treatment options close to home remains a top priority for our government," said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill. "We are dedicated to driving healthcare innovation that enhances patient outcomes and improves quality of life for all residents."
The program treated its first patient in January 2025. The procedure uses a combination of standard applicators and strategically placed interstitial needles to deliver precise, high-dose radiation. This approach allows for effective treatment of irregular-sized tumours while minimizing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue and reducing side effects.
The SCA estimates that approximately 65 per cent of cervical cancer patients in Saskatchewan could benefit from this treatment. The program is expected to help more than 20 patients annually, with each receiving four treatments—amounting to about 80 procedures per year.
"We're excited to expand our treatment options and provide this safe, innovative and highly effective therapy for cervical cancer patients right here, where they're close to their support networks," said Dr. Jocelyn Moore, a radiation oncologist with the SCA.
The program will be introduced in three phases over the coming years. Phase 1 focuses on hybrid therapy, combining a standard applicator with interstitial needles for enhanced precision. Future phases will expand treatment options to include different applicators for vaginal cancers, vaginally recurrent uterine cancers, and locally advanced cervical cancers.
Initially, the procedure will be offered in Saskatoon, with plans to expand to Regina in the future. The initiative is a collaboration between the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency and the Saskatchewan Health Authority, ensuring a coordinated approach to patient care.