Willmar Regional Cancer Center began its first treatment of Xofigo® (radium-223 dichloride) earlier this month. It’s the latest treatment option for men with advanced prostate cancer.
“This is a huge benefit for our patients, and for our region,” said Dr. Tod Speer, Radiation Oncologist with Willmar Regional Cancer Center. “This treatment gives new hope to metastatic prostate patients whose cancer has spread to their bones.”
Speer states that Willmar Regional Cancer Center worked for many months to get licensed as a treatment facility for Xofigo®, and was the first cancer center in the region approved to administer it.
“Currently, we are the only cancer center in west central or southwest Minnesota offering this advanced treatment,” said Speer. “The next closest treatment facilities would be St. Cloud or the Twin Cities.”
Xofigo® is a radiation treatment, not chemotherapy, that is administered by IV once a month for six months. A typical appointment lasts no longer than fifteen minutes, and there are no restrictions regarding contact with other people immediately after treatment. For patients, the treatments have been found to be very effective at relieving bone pain, extending survival, and delaying chemotherapy for a significant period of time.
Willmar Regional Cancer Center is currently accepting patients for Xofigo® treatment. Those with questions are encouraged to call 320-231-4570. No physician referral is required.
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