Not everyone who comes to the cancer centre will have treatment.
Some oncologists (cancer doctors) at the cancer centre also treat health problems that are not cancer, such as certain blood diseases. At your first visit, your oncologist will talk to you about your diagnosis. They will explain what the disease is and if treatment is the best option for you. If you have questions about your diagnosis or care plan, talk to your healthcare team.
If you are diagnosed with cancer, you may be offered treatment such as:
| TYPE OF TREATMENT | WHAT IS IT | LEARN MORE |
|---|---|---|
| Radiation Therapy | High energy rays (like an x-ray) will target the tumour and be sent into the tumor cells. | CCS Radiation Therapy Information |
| Surgery | Can diagnose, stage, treat symptoms, or cure. The type of surgery needed depends on the type of cancer you have. | CCS Surgery Information |
| Systemic Therapy | Treatment that travels through the bloodstream to reach cells all over the body. May be given by injection into a vein or muscle (intravenous, IV), or by mouth (oral pill). There are several types of systemic treatment, your oncologist will help you decide which type is best for you. |
More information about Treatment Types is available at the Canadian Cancer Society.
Access cancer care closer to where you live.
WRHN Cancer Centre partners with local hospitals in Waterloo Wellington. Some of these hospitals offer systemic treatment (e.g. chemotherapy). Only WRHN Cancer Centre has the ability to offer radiation therapy.
Our partner sites that offer systemic treatment:
Sharing your care with a partner site can mean less travel and stress. You will get the same, reliable cancer care at all partner sites.
Ask your healthcare team if you qualify for care closer to home.