Sudbury oncologist co-authors New England Journal of Medicine paper

Dr. Julie Bowen, a radiation oncologist with the Hôpital régional de Sudbury Regional Hospital (HRSRH) Regional Cancer Program (RCP), co-authored a paper recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

The paper, “Long-Term Results of Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer,” published in the February edition, centered around research conducted around radiation therapy for breast cancer patients. Bowen was named as co-author, as the RCP was an active participant in the study, and many of the patients in the study hailed from northeastern Ontario.

“We’ve discovered that radiation to the breast can be given safely over fewer treatments than we used to consider. The article presented proof gleaned through long-term follow-up with patients confirming that the reduction in the number of radiation treatments is safe, effective, and more convenient for patients,” Bowen said, in a press release. “It presents very good news, and I believe our patients should be proud to have participated in a study that will benefit breast cancer patients everywhere.”

Bowen said fewer radiation treatments will ultimately mean fewer side effects for patients, be more convenient, improve efficiency and lead to shorter wait times. Bowen affirms that the practice has already been implemented with breast cancer patients in northeastern Ontario.

“Being part of a study published in such a prestigious journal speaks to Dr. Bowen’s dedication as a physician, excellent reputation, and skill as a clinician. The RCP team is very proud of Dr. Bowen’s accomplishment,” Bertha Paulse, RCP vice-president, said.