Saint Vincent Cancer Center: New Technology Cutting Treatment Time to Under 5 Minutes

“One in three women and one in three men at some point in their life will actually hear those words,” Ellis said. “If we understand that it’s a very common disease, there’s a lot we can be proactive about.”- Patricia Ellis

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-stvincenthospital.com

Worcester, MA-With cancer affecting nearly one in three people, early detection and access to advanced treatment options have never been more important.

Patricia Ellis, Director of the Cancer & Wellness Center at Saint Vincent Hospital, says the key is understanding that cancer is not rare—and that proactive steps can make a critical difference.

“One in three women and one in three men at some point in their life will actually hear those words,” Ellis said. “If we understand that it’s a very common disease, there’s a lot we can be proactive about.”

Ellis outlined a comprehensive approach that combines education, screening, and cutting-edge technology.

At the center is Saint Vincent’s investment in advanced treatment systems, including a new Linear Accelerator and VisionRT technology. These tools are transforming radiation therapy—making treatments faster, more precise, and safer.

VisionRT, in particular, has significantly reduced treatment times—from roughly 45 minutes to under five—while helping protect vital organs such as the heart and lungs during procedures like breast cancer treatment.

But Ellis emphasized that technology alone is not enough.

She encourages patients to take a proactive role in their health through a three-part strategy: understanding their bodies, staying current with recommended screenings, and knowing their family history.

“Knowledge is power,” Ellis said, especially when it comes to identifying potential risks early.

She pointed to the “CAUTION UP” acronym as a helpful guide for recognizing warning signs and stressed the importance of routine screenings, including colorectal cancer screenings beginning at age 45, annual mammograms starting at age 40, yearly skin checks, and lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals.

Lung cancer screening, she noted, is one of the most effective yet underutilized tools available.

“There’s a great screening process now available for lung cancer,” Ellis said, “and it’s very underutilized.”

The message is clear: early detection saves lives—and with today’s technology and resources, patients have more tools than ever to stay ahead of a diagnosis.

Dr. Chintan Patel on New St. Vincent Urology Office and Preventive Men’s Health Care

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-umassmemorial.org

WORCESTER, MA-Dr. Chintan Patel, Division Chief of Urology at Saint Vincent Hospital, joined Talk of the Commonwealth to discuss the recent opening of Saint Vincent Medical Group Urology’s new satellite office in Northborough and to provide an overview of urology and preventive men’s and women’s health care.

Dr. Patel described urologists as the “plumbers of the human body,” explaining that the specialty addresses a wide range of conditions affecting both men and women. Among the most common issues he sees are benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), kidney stones, female incontinence, erectile dysfunction (ED), and prostate cancer.

During the discussion, Dr. Patel emphasized the role of prevention and lifestyle choices in urologic health. He highlighted hydration as a key factor in reducing the risk of kidney stones and underscored the close connection between cardiovascular health and sexual health. According to Dr. Patel, habits that support heart health such as regular exercise, a clean diet, and avoiding smoking also play a significant role in preventing erectile dysfunction.

Prostate cancer, which Dr. Patel described as the most common solid organ malignancy in men over the age of 50, was another key topic. He stressed that when prostate cancer is detected early through appropriate screening, it is often highly manageable and should not be viewed as a “death sentence.”

Dr. Patel also contrasted the comprehensive, evidence-based care provided by board-certified urologists with that of cash-based “men’s health clinics,” encouraging patients to seek care from credentialed specialists and not to delay screenings or treatment.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Saint Vincent Medical Group Urology – Northborough or call (508) 481-0246.