You have been diagnosed with cancer.

Here's what to expect.

Once your cancer diagnosis is confirmed, you'll discuss treatment goals (curative or palliative) and possible referrals to specialists like surgeons, oncologists or radiologists.  This phase will be busy and can be overwhelming - having someone at your appointments with you is helpful.

You'll likely meet with your surgeion or cancer centre doctors within 2-4 weeks. Together you'll create a treatment plan, schedule therapy and treatment breaks for recovery. Treatment typically begins 2-4 weeks later.

Use the time before you start treatment to prepare your mind and mody - consider physiotherapy or massage, focus on nutrition and hand financial planning. Also, plan something enjoyable to keep your spirits up.

Surgery

Not all cancers require surgery, but if surgery is needed, it is typically available in North Bay. However, some specialized procedures or certain types of surgeries may not be offered in town. In these cases, you may be referred to specialists in Sudbury, Toronto, or Ottawa, depending on the specific needs.

Cancers treated with surgery in North Bay:

  • General Surgery - breast, colorectal and skin cancers
  • Urologist - prostate, bladder and kidney cancers
  • Gynaecologist - uterine, cervical and ovarian cancers
  • Orthopedic - bone cancers
  • Otolaryngology - thyroid, head and neck cancers

Cancers treated with surgery outside of North Bay:

  • Neurosurgeon - back and spine cancers
  • Thoracic - lung cancers

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy for cancer uses high doses of radiation to destroy cancer cells by repeatedly damaging them. Its primary purpose is to shrink tumors, but it can also be used in other ways to treat cancer. Although radiation therapy is effective, a potential long-term side effect is an increased risk of developing a second cancer years later.


Modern radiation therapy is highly sophisticated, targeting tumors more precisely while minimizing damage to nearby healthy cells. This reduces the frequency and severity of side effects. Some common effects include skin irritation (similar to a sunburn) in the treated area and fatigue, which can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may continue working, while others may experience too much fatigue to consider it.

If you undergo radiation, your radiation oncologist will prescribe a set number of doses. This could range from just a few doses to several weeks of treatment, typically given five days a week (Monday to Friday). Each session usually lasts 15-30 minutes.

Where will I get Radiation Therapy?

The Northeast Cancer Centre in Sudbury is the location for radiation therapy. There, you will meet with a Radiation Oncologist who will assess whether radiation therapy is a suitable treatment for you. If it is recommended, the Centre will handle all the necessary preparation, which may require several visits. They also offer a group information session to explain the process and what to expect, which will likely be scheduled on one of your days there for other appointments.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy, or "chemo," uses drugs to target and kill cancer cells and is commonly used to treat various types of cancer. It may be administered alone or in combination with other treatments, such as radiation therapy or surgery. Chemotherapy can be given in pill form or through a PICC line, which is a central intravenous (I.V.) line.

Where will I get my chemotherapy?

Pill Form

Chemotherapy pills are prescribed by your oncologist and can be picked up at the pharmacy to be taken at home. However, these pills are not covered by OHIP and can be quite expensive. It is crucial to have third-party insurance coverage or apply for Trillium drug coverage as soon as possible. Your chemotherapy doctor will discuss these options with you.

I.V. Chemotherapy

I.V. chemotherapy must be administered at a hospital's chemotherapy unit, usually taking about half a day for each session. Many cancer treatments require only a dose every few weeks. A PICC line may be inserted to safely receive the chemotherapy infusion.


While the Sudbury Cancer Centre offers this service, it is often possible to receive treatment closer to home. Your chemotherapy doctor will determine the most suitable location for your infusions.

I.V. Chemotherapy Locations:
  • North Bay Regional Health Centre, North Bay
  • Northeastern Ontario Cancer Centre, Sudbury
  • Temiskaming hospital, New Liskeard
  • West Nipissing General Hospital, Sturgeon Falls

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Side effects from chemotherapy can vary greatly depending on the type of chemo you receive and how your body responds. Your oncologist will review potential side effects with you, and you’ll receive more detailed information at your local chemotherapy unit. They will also provide contact information for support if you experience side effects. It's crucial to reach out and report any issues, as it may affect your planned chemotherapy or require prompt attention.

What is a PICC Line?

A PICC line is a type of intravenous line placed in the upper arm, allowing chemotherapy to be delivered directly into your central circulation. This helps protect smaller veins from damage during treatment. The PICC line remains in place for the entire duration of your chemotherapy, not just during the infusion sessions.

If you need one, your chemotherapy doctor will refer you for the procedure, which is typically done in the hospital's radiology department. It's a quick procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia.