Groundbreaking Cancer Trial in Prince George Shows Promising Results

A pioneering clinical trial for cancer treatment is currently underway in Prince George, Canada, spearheaded by BC Cancer. This world-first trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a single, highly targeted dose of radiation on patients with oligometastatic cancer, which is characterized by the disease spreading beyond the primary tumor to three to five sites across the body. The trial is particularly significant for common cancer types such as breast, prostate, and lung cancer.

The initiative, funded by the BC Cancer Foundation, could drastically alter the treatment landscape for patients in British Columbia, especially those in northern regions. The current study, led by Dr. Rob Olson, the executive medical director and radiation oncologist at BC Cancer – Prince George, is expected to reduce both treatment times and side effects associated with conventional cancer therapies.

Innovative Treatment Approach

Recent research conducted by Dr. Olson indicates that Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR), a sophisticated form of precision radiation, has shown remarkable efficacy in treating oligometastatic cancer. This method has been associated with fewer side effects compared to traditional radiation treatments, and in some cases, it has even resulted in complete remission.

The financial backing for this trial includes a $2.2 million fundraising campaign by the BC Cancer Foundation, alongside substantial contributions from local philanthropists Selen and Anita Alpay, who donated $500,000 to support the SIMPLIFY initiative. Dr. Olson emphasized the unique nature of this treatment approach, stating, “Instead of giving simple rectangles at low doses for palliation, we’re able to shape the dose over the last couple of decades.”

He further explained that the trial is designed to not only treat but also potentially eradicate tumors using higher doses of radiation delivered safely. This method represents a significant paradigm shift in cancer treatment, particularly for patients in more isolated communities who may face challenges in accessing healthcare.

Patient Success Stories and Future Prospects

The first patient enrolled in the SIMPLIFY trial was Violet MacLean, a grandmother from Quesnel, who began her treatment in May 2025. Facing Stage 4 breast cancer for nearly a decade, MacLean joined the trial to address a new lesion on her hip bone. Following her treatment, she experienced substantial health improvements and is currently in remission at the site treated during the trial.

Reflecting on her experience, MacLean remarked, “With just one treatment, I was able to get back to my life quickly.” Her story underscores the potential impact of this trial, which has now expanded to more than 600 patients globally, attracting interest from cancer centers in the United States, Ireland, and beyond.

Dr. Olson is particularly passionate about the trial’s implications for healthcare costs and accessibility. “This study is patient-centric and trying to be cost-effective — it’s trying to reduce the number of treatments,” he noted. He acknowledged the challenges posed by traditional industry interests, stating, “We couldn’t go to the companies because, if anything, we’re taking away business from them.”

The potential benefits extend beyond individual patients. By leading these innovative trials, Prince George could become a hub for researchers and oncologists, attracting talent to the region as it gears up to open four new cancer centers in British Columbia.

Dr. Olson expressed optimism for the future, stating, “By leading these trials, we will recruit other radiation oncologists and other researchers — like MD-PhD students and clinical trial staff — who then move to Prince George because of it.” He expects practical application results from the trials to emerge in the coming years, heralding a new era in cancer treatment.