Cancer cases to double in 15 years; need for radiation therapy to increase 60% over next decade.
January 14, 2023 – Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, and its incidence is expected to continue rising in the coming years. According to recent projections, the number of cancer cases in William Osler Health System’s catchment area is expected to double in the next 15 years.
This increase is likely to put a significant strain on the healthcare system, as well as on patients and their families. One area of particular concern is the need for radiation therapy, which is used to treat many types of cancer.
According to experts, the need for radiation therapy is expected to increase more than 60% in less than 10 years. This increase is likely to be driven by a number of factors, including an aging population, an increase in the incidence of cancer, and advances in technology that make radiation therapy more widely available.
Osler’s oncology team offers exceptional care through their partnership with community partners and membership in the Mississauga Halton Central West Regional Cancer Program and Cancer Care Ontario. They provide state-of-the-art, person-centered care for those affected by cancer. Some of the many innovative services they offer include rapid genomic tumor sequencing, access to global clinical trials for new cancer treatments, innovative immunotherapy and oral cancer monitoring programs, and advanced surgical techniques.
To address these upcoming challenges, a comprehensive approach that includes early detection and prevention, better treatment options, and improved access to care is necessary. This includes promoting healthy lifestyles, increasing public awareness of the risk factors for cancer, providing access to screening programs, developing new and more effective treatments, and making existing treatments more accessible to patients.
Advances in technology, such as the development of more precise radiation therapy techniques, are also expected to play an important role in improving treatment outcomes.
Improving access to care is also crucial, especially for individuals living in rural or remote areas. This includes expanding access to primary care and preventive services, as well as providing support for transportation and accommodation for patients who need to travel for treatment.
It is important for the healthcare system stakeholders, policymakers and the community to work together to ensure that the necessary steps are taken to address this growing public health issue.
This requires collaboration and coordination across different sectors and stakeholders to ensure that the right resources are in place to support early detection and prevention, improved treatment options, and improved access to care.
