Groundbreaking Cancer Trial in Prince George Shows Promising Results

A pioneering clinical trial hosted in Prince George, British Columbia, is demonstrating significant success in treating oligometastatic cancer, which has spread from its original site to up to five locations in the body. The trial, led by Dr. Rob Olson at BC Cancer, is the first of its kind globally and is funded by the BC Cancer Foundation.

Oligometastatic cancer affects common types such as breast, prostate, and lung cancer. The trial is investigating the efficacy of a single, highly targeted dose of radiation, which could lead to shorter treatment times and fewer side effects for patients. Currently, the trial is underway at several sites, including locations in Vancouver and Kelowna, as well as internationally.

Dr. Olson, who serves as the executive medical director and radiation oncologist at BC Cancer – Prince George, stated that recent research indicates that up to eight doses of Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) have shown a high effectiveness rate in treating this form of cancer, often resulting in complete remission. He emphasized that this innovative approach may transform treatment protocols for patients across British Columbia, particularly in remote northern communities.

$2.2 million has been raised through a community campaign led by the BC Cancer Foundation, with significant contributions from local philanthropists Selen and Anita Alpay, who donated $500,000 to the initiative. Dr. Olson highlighted the trial’s potential to improve patient care, particularly for those in less accessible areas.

“We need innovations like this that shorten the treatment time so that we can reduce our wait-lists and treat other people,” Dr. Olson said. He noted that the trial is designed to be patient-centric and cost-effective, aiming to reduce the number of treatments required.

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 after her oncologist recommended it for a new lesion on her hip bone. Since receiving a single treatment, she has experienced significant health improvements and is currently in remission.

“It wasn’t invasive at all,” MacLean remarked about her treatment experience, which lasted approximately 40 minutes. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the trial, stating, “I’m sure I’m here today because others took part in trials before me.”

Since MacLean’s treatment, the trial has expanded to include more than 600 patients globally, with interest from cancer centres in the United States, Ireland, and beyond. Dr. Olson is optimistic that the outcomes of these trials will not only benefit patients but also enhance Prince George’s reputation as a leading research hub.

“By leading these trials, we will recruit other radiation oncologists and researchers, which is crucial for our community,” he noted. Dr. Olson believes that as more innovations emerge from the trial, they will attract additional healthcare professionals to the region, contributing to improved care for patients in Northern British Columbia.

The results of the practical applications of this trial are expected to emerge in the coming years, potentially reshaping how oligometastatic cancer is treated worldwide. This initiative exemplifies a significant step forward in the quest for more effective cancer therapies, promising hope for patients and their families.