Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) has inaugurated its state-of-the-art Radiation Therapy Department. This addition signifies a significant step forward in providing progressive cancer care for patients in the UAE and the wider region.
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, plays a crucial role in cancer treatment. It employs high-energy beams to target and disrupt the DNA of cancer cells, making it an essential and effective option for treating various types of cancer. Patients can use it independently or in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, hormonal therapy, and surgery to achieve the best outcomes and manage cancer symptoms.
Advancing Cancer Care with Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is integral to comprehensive cancer care, with more than half of cancer patients worldwide requiring it at some point during their cancer journey. Globally, cancer affects over 18 million people and is responsible for approximately 9.6 million deaths annually. In the UAE, cancer ranks as the third leading cause of death, with breast cancer being the most diagnosed type.
Dr. Daniel Chamberlain, chair of Radiation Therapy Department at SSMC, commented on how the department’s launch will further advance SSMC’s position as a specialized hospital for oncological care and said: “SSMC is proud to be on a journey of continued growth to place patients’ needs first. Developed in partnership with Mayo Clinic, the Radiation Therapy Department will support SSMC in expanding its oncological offerings. The department will provide external beam radiation therapy in a definitive and palliative care setting while utilizing the latest technologies with the highest levels of precision and innovation.”
Reflecting on this important milestone, Dr. Naser Ammash, Chief Executive Officer, SSMC said: “As a hospital specialized in complex and serious care, boosting the provision of world-class care in oncology is a cornerstone of our mission and brings us closer to our goal of becoming a Destination Medical Center.” Dr. Ammash added: “Our newly opened Radiation Therapy Department is set to provide added convenience and bring expert cancer care closer to home for patients living in the UAE and the region. Our focus remains on delivering integrated and innovative care led with empathy and compassion to achieve the best outcomes.”
SSMC’s commitment to offering leading-edge oncological care demonstrates its dedication to becoming a Destination Medical Center, indulging in complex and serious healthcare needs with a patient-centric approach.
