Dr. David Anthony Cuthbert

Dr. David Cuthbert has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood cells.
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) / Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): A type of cancer that starts from white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the bone marrow, typically slow-growing.
• Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in the bone marrow that produces antibodies, leading to bone damage and other complications.

Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology

• Breast Cancer (Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, Palliative Radiation): Applying radiation after lumpectomy or mastectomy to reduce recurrence risk, or to treat metastatic disease.
• Gastrointestinal Cancers (e.g., Rectal, Anal, Pancreatic, Stomach): Role of radiation therapy in managing various cancers of the digestive system, often as part of combined modality treatment.
• Head & Neck Cancers (e.g., Laryngeal, Pharyngeal, Oral Cavity): Utilizing radiation therapy as a primary treatment, or in conjunction with surgery and/or chemotherapy for cancers of the head and neck region.

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• Genitourinary Cancers (Bladder, Kidney, Testicular, Penile): Cancers affecting the urinary system (kidneys, bladder) or male reproductive organs (testes, penis), managed with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted agents.
• Ovarian, Uterine (Endometrial), & Cervical Cancers (Gynecologic Oncology - Medical Aspects): Systemic treatment aspects for cancers of the female reproductive system, often in collaboration with gynecologic oncologists or surgeons.
• Colorectal Cancer (Colon & Rectal Cancer): Cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, often managed with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation (for rectal), and targeted therapies.

This list provides examples of common conditions treated and is not exhaustive. Cancer and blood disorders are complex, and treatment is highly individualized. For personalized advice, please discuss your specific situation with Dr. David Cuthbert or your referring physician.

• Palliative Radiation Therapy for Symptom Control: Using radiation to alleviate pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by cancer.
• Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): Preventative radiation treatment to the brain for certain cancers at high risk of brain metastases.
• Total Body Irradiation (TBI) - Component of Stem Cell Transplant Regimens: Radiation therapy delivered to the entire body, often used as part of the conditioning regimen before a bone marrow or stem cell transplant.
• Radiation Therapy Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive assessment to determine if radiation therapy is an appropriate treatment modality, followed by meticulous 3D/4D simulation and treatment planning.
• Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation - LDR/HDR) for Specific Cancers: Planning and performing procedures where radioactive sources are placed directly into or near a tumor (e.g., for prostate, cervical, breast cancer).
• Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): Utilizing advanced imaging during treatment delivery to precisely target tumors and adapt to changes, while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Cuthbert provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Cuthbert or your healthcare team for details relevant to your care.

All medical services and treatments are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.

Hope Medical Clinic is conveniently situated in the areas near central St Catharines' neighborhood of St Catharines. The clinic is easily accessible via local public transit, making it convenient for patients coming from various parts of the city and surrounding communities. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable access for all patients. Parking is available at the site, providing ease of access for those arriving by car. The clinic's central location near local points of interest makes it a trusted destination for comprehensive cancer care in the region.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Cuthbert, an Radiation Oncologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests (like biopsies, imaging reviews), chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, radiation therapy planning and delivery, and management of blood disorders by a licensed Radiation Oncologist such as Dr. Cuthbert are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Specific drug coverage for newer therapies can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), Dr. Cuthbert's office, the hospital's patient financial services, or the cancer care navigation services at the treatment facility.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Cuthbert, an Radiation Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Cuthbert for assessment or treatment of cancer or significant hematological conditions. This ensures that your primary care provider is involved in your care continuum and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific situation. Cancer care programs often have centralized intake systems that manage referrals to ensure timely access.

Does Dr. Cuthbert participate in or offer access to clinical trials?

Many oncologists and hematologists are involved in clinical research to advance cancer treatment and care for blood disorders, as participation in clinical trials can offer access to new and investigational treatments. Dr. Cuthbert is actively involved in clinical trials and may discuss relevant trial options with you if you are eligible and it is appropriate for your condition. You can ask Dr. Cuthbert if there are any suitable clinical trials available for your condition, either at Dr. Cuthbert's institution or through collaborative research networks. He can provide information or refer you for consideration.

What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Cuthbert?

After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Cuthbert will develop a survivorship care plan with you. This plan typically includes a schedule for follow-up appointments and tests to monitor for any signs of recurrence, management of any long-term side effects from treatment, recommendations for healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise), and coordination with your family doctor for ongoing general health care. The goal is to support your long-term health and well-being.

What is targeted therapy in cancer treatment?

Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific types of cancer cells with less harm to normal cells. These therapies work by targeting specific genes or proteins found in cancer cells or cells related to cancer growth, like blood vessel cells. Genetic testing of the tumor is often done to see if a targeted therapy is likely to be effective. Dr. Cuthbert can explain if targeted therapy is an option for your cancer.

What is immunotherapy and how does it work for cancer?

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that helps your own immune system fight cancer. It works by boosting or changing how the immune system works so it can find and attack cancer cells more effectively. There are different types of immunotherapy, including checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, and cancer vaccines. Dr. Cuthbert may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.

What are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Cuthbert help manage them?

Chemotherapy can cause various side effects, which differ depending on the specific drugs used, the dose, and individual patient factors. Common ones include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, changes in appetite, diarrhea or constipation, and increased risk of infection due to low blood counts. Dr. Cuthbert and the oncology nursing team will discuss potential side effects of your specific treatment plan in detail and will actively work to prevent and manage them with medications (e.g., anti-nausea drugs, growth factors to boost blood counts), supportive care advice (nutrition, hydration, rest), and regular monitoring. Open communication about any side effects you experience is very important for effective management.

Hope Medical Clinic
Suite 214, 1200 Fourth Avenue
St Catharines, ON L2S 0A9

Phone: (905) 378-4647

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Cuthbert is a licensed Radiation Oncologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or other specialist is required for most consultations and treatments under the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Cuthbert-David-Anthony/0262478-92267