About
Dr. Huma Qawi, a Medical Oncologist, specializes in using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted agents to treat a wide range of cancers. Practicing at the St Michaels Hospital Health Centre in St Catharines, ON, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive cancer care. Her practice centers on the use of cutting-edge systemic therapies for adult solid tumors, ensuring patients receive individualized and advanced treatment options. Dr. Qawi’s approach emphasizes compassionate, patient-centered care, focusing on improving outcomes and quality of life for those diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Karachi in 1995 (Pakistan). With over 18 years of experience as a Medical Oncologist since 2006, she has developed a deep expertise in the field. Dr. Qawi is certified as a CPSO Recognized Specialist in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies), ensuring adherence to the highest standards of medical practice and patient safety.
Her clinical philosophy is rooted in multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatment, and holistic patient support. She is dedicated to providing personalized care to her patients in St Catharines, integrating the latest research and treatment modalities. Fluent in English, Hindi, and Urdu, Dr. Qawi is committed to clear communication and culturally sensitive care, fostering a trusting environment for her patients and their families.
Dr. Huma Qawi has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- Head and Neck Cancers (Oral Cavity, Pharynx, Larynx - Medical Oncology aspects): Cancers arising in the head and neck region, where medical oncologists manage chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.
- Melanoma & Advanced Skin Cancers: Aggressive forms of skin cancer, where oncologists manage systemic treatments like immunotherapy or targeted therapy for advanced or metastatic disease.
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. Huma Qawi or your referring physician.
- Treatment of Various Solid Tumors: Specialized care for a wide range of cancers such as breast, lung (NSCLC, SCLC), colorectal, prostate, melanoma, ovarian, uterine, cervical, bladder, kidney, pancreatic, stomach, esophageal, head & neck (non-surgical aspects), brain tumors (non-surgical aspects), and sarcomas.
- Comprehensive Oncologic & Hematologic Consultation: In-depth evaluation of medical history, review of diagnostic imaging and pathology, cancer staging (if applicable), and development of personalized treatment plans for various cancers and blood disorders.
- Cancer Survivorship Care & Long-Term Follow-Up: Developing individualized follow-up care plans for cancer survivors, focusing on surveillance for recurrence, management of late effects of treatment, and promoting wellness.
- Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapies Administration & Management: Expert administration and ongoing management of treatments including intravenous and oral chemotherapy, immunotherapy (e.g., checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy coordination), targeted molecular therapy, and hormone therapy.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
- Genetic Counseling & Testing Referrals for Hereditary Cancer Syndromes: Assessment of family history and risk factors, and coordination of referrals for genetic counseling and testing for inherited predispositions to cancer (e.g., BRCA).
- Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, & Metastatic/Palliative Systemic Therapy: Developing treatment plans given before (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) primary local treatment (like surgery or radiation) to improve outcomes, or for managing advanced/metastatic cancer to control disease and improve quality oflife.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Qawi provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Qawi 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.
Dr. Huma Qawi practices at the St Michaels Hospital Health Centre located in the areas near central St Catharines. The facility is easily accessible from nearby points of interest and is well-served by local public transit. The hospital campus is wheelchair accessible, ensuring convenient entry for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby, providing ease of access for those arriving by car. The location offers a welcoming environment with modern amenities designed to support comprehensive cancer care and patient comfort.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Qawi, an Medical 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 Medical Oncologist such as Dr. Qawi 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. Qawi'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. Qawi, an Medical Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Medical Oncologist like Dr. Qawi 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.
- What are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Qawi 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. Qawi 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.
- What does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Qawi specialize in?
- An Oncologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This can include Medical Oncologists who use systemic treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, Radiation Oncologists who use radiation therapy, and Surgical Oncologists who perform surgery to remove tumors. A Hematologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the blood, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph glands; this includes benign conditions like anemia and bleeding disorders, as well as malignant conditions (blood cancers) like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Dr. Qawi has expertise in both Medical Oncology and Hematology, providing comprehensive care for various cancers and blood conditions.
- What is Radiation Oncology and when is it used?
- Radiation Oncology is a medical specialty that uses high-energy radiation (like X-rays, gamma rays, or charged particles) to damage or destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. It can be used as a primary treatment, before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or in combination with chemotherapy. It can also be used for palliative care to relieve symptoms. Dr. Qawi may refer patients to a Radiation Oncologist if this treatment is indicated for their type of cancer as part of a multidisciplinary care plan.
- How does cancer or blood disorder treatment differ for children compared to adults?
- [If the provider specializes in pediatric hematology/oncology:] As a Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist, Dr. Qawi specializes in these differences. Children's bodies react differently to treatments, and the types of cancers and blood disorders are often distinct from adult conditions. Treatment protocols are specifically designed for pediatric patients, considering their growth and development. Care is family-centered, involving parents and caregivers closely in decision-making and support. [Else:] Treatment for children with cancer or blood disorders is highly specialized and managed by Pediatric Hematologists/Oncologists. They use protocols tailored to children, considering long-term effects on growth and development.
- Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Qawi recommends it?
- A bone marrow biopsy and aspiration are procedures used to collect and examine bone marrow, the soft tissue inside your bones where blood cells are made. Dr. Qawi might recommend this test to diagnose or monitor various blood disorders, including leukemias, lymphomas, myeloma, anemias, or infections. The procedure is usually done on the back of the hip bone under local anesthesia. A needle is used to withdraw a small sample of liquid marrow (aspiration) and a small core of bone marrow tissue (biopsy). You may feel some pressure or brief pain.
- Does a Hematologist only treat blood cancers?
- No, Hematologists treat a wide range of blood disorders, not just cancers. This includes benign (non-cancerous) conditions such as various types of anemia (e.g., iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia), bleeding disorders (like hemophilia or von Willebrand disease), clotting disorders (thrombophilia, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism), and issues with white blood cells (like neutropenia) or platelets (like ITP). Dr. Qawi, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.
St Michaels Hospital Health Centre
6th Floor Room 6-138, 1200 Fourth Avenue
St Catharines, ON L2S 0A9
Phone: (905) 682-6451
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Qawi is a licensed Medical 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/Qawi-Huma/0227540-84056