NEW CANCER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT UNVEILED

Saskatchewan cancer patients now have access to another new linear accelerator that will provide quicker, easier and more accurate radiation therapy.

The $2.3-million piece of equipment was unveiled today at the Saskatoon Cancer Centre.

"This state-of-the-art machine illustrates the progress we are making in cancer care in Saskatchewan," Healthy Living Services Minister Graham Addley said on behalf of Health Minister Len Taylor. "In partnership with the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency and health regions, we are working hard to provide excellent services for cancer patients, within our financial means."

The linear accelerator can send a radiation beam in the precise shape of a tumour, allowing more accurate and effective treatment. It can treat 25 to 27 patients every day, depending on the treatment required.

"This new linear accelerator will continue to improve the work environment for our radiation oncology specialists by providing additional state-of-the-art technology and further enhancing the capability to participate in radiation therapy research," Saskatoon Cancer Centre Executive Director Dr. David Popkin said.

The Saskatoon Cancer Centre now has three linear accelerators in use. Three others are located at the Allan Blair Cancer Centre in Regina. Half of all patients diagnosed with cancer in Saskatchewan receive radiation therapy. In 2004, more than 38,500 radiation therapy treatments were provided at the two cancer centres.

"We are very pleased to receive this additional linear accelerator, which will allow us to continue to offer Saskatchewan residents the latest in radiation therapy cancer treatment," Saskatchewan Cancer Agency CEO Bob Allen said. "It is very important that we continue to have the latest in treatment technology in the fight against cancer."

The new linear accelerator is the third purchased by Saskatchewan Health for Saskatchewan's cancer centres since 2003.

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For More Information, Contact:

Glenda Little Saskatchewan Cancer Agency Regina Phone: (306) 791-2767

Kimberly Kratzig Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083