Dr. Joda Stanley Kuk, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Kitchener, ON, he provides care to adults with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders. His practice is committed to excellence in patient-centered care, adhering strictly to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Kuk’s expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, ensuring each patient receives tailored and effective treatment.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 2006 in Canada and has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist for over 13 years, since 2011. He is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist in Radiation Oncology, reflecting his comprehensive training and commitment to maintaining high standards of clinical practice. His certification underscores his expertise in the field of cancer treatment with radiation, and he continually updates his skills through ongoing education and professional development.
Dr. Kuk is dedicated to providing multidisciplinary, evidence-based care with a focus on supporting his patients and their families throughout their treatment journey. He believes in clear communication, compassionate support, and integrating the latest research findings into his clinical practice. Fluent in English, he strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel informed and empowered to make decisions about their health. His approach emphasizes collaboration with other healthcare providers to ensure optimal outcomes and holistic patient care.
Dr. Joda Kuk has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology
- Lymphomas & Hematologic Malignancies (Radiation Role): Utilizing radiation therapy in specific situations for Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin lymphomas, or for conditioning before stem cell transplant.
- Sarcomas (Bone & Soft Tissue - Radiation Aspects): Role of radiation therapy in the multidisciplinary management of sarcomas, often used before or after surgery.
- Thoracic Cancers (e.g., Lung Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Mesothelioma): Using radiation therapy to treat cancers within the chest cavity, often combined with other modalities.
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- Breast Cancer (Early Stage, Locally Advanced, Metastatic): Malignant tumors developing in the cells of the breast, managed with various therapies including hormonal, chemo, targeted agents, and immunotherapy.
- 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.
- Gastrointestinal Cancers (Esophageal, Stomach, Pancreatic, Liver, Biliary): A group of cancers affecting the digestive system organs, each requiring specific diagnostic and multidisciplinary treatment approaches including systemic therapies.
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A type of cancer that starts in certain blood-forming cells of the bone marrow, often managed with targeted therapies.
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) (e.g., Diffuse Large B-Cell, Follicular, Mantle Cell): A diverse group of blood cancers that develop from lymphocytes, with many different subtypes requiring tailored treatments.
- Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia, Myelofibrosis): A group of chronic blood cancers where the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets.
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. Joda Kuk or your referring physician.
- 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.
- Palliative Radiation Therapy for Symptom Control: Using radiation to alleviate pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by cancer.
- 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.
- 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
- Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): Preventative radiation treatment to the brain for certain cancers at high risk of brain metastases.
- Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Kuk provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Kuk 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. Kuk practices at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department located in the Downtown Kitchener, Cedar Hill neighbourhood of Kitchener, ON. The facility is situated in close proximity to Midtown KW Area and St. Mary's General Hospital (nearby). It is accessible via public transit, including Grand River Transit (GRT) buses and the ION Light Rail system. The centre is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby for convenience.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Kuk, 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. Kuk 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. Kuk'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. Kuk, an Radiation Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Kuk 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 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. Kuk specializes in planning and delivering radiation therapy using techniques like EBRT, IMRT, SBRT, or brachytherapy. If radiation therapy is indicated for your type of cancer, Dr. Kuk will develop and oversee your treatment plan.
- Does Dr. Kuk 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. Kuk may discuss eligible clinical trial options with you if appropriate for your condition, or you can ask him about available trials at his institution or through collaborative research networks.
- What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Kuk?
- After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Kuk will develop a survivorship care plan with you. This plan includes scheduled follow-up visits, tests to monitor for recurrence, management of any long-term side effects, guidance on healthy lifestyle choices, and coordination with your family doctor for ongoing health maintenance. The aim is to support your long-term health and quality of life.
- What kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Kuk?
- Supportive care is essential to manage symptoms, reduce side effects, and improve quality of life. Services include pain management, nutritional counseling, psychological support, social work services, physiotherapy or occupational therapy, access to patient support groups, and spiritual care. Dr. Kuk and his healthcare team can connect patients with these resources to ensure comprehensive support during their treatment journey.
- What is targeted therapy in cancer treatment?
- Targeted therapy involves drugs that specifically target genetic mutations or proteins involved in cancer growth, with less harm to normal cells. These therapies often require genetic testing of the tumor to identify suitable targets. Dr. Kuk can determine if targeted therapy is an appropriate option based on your specific cancer profile.
835 King Street West
Kitchener, ON N2G 1G3
Phone: (519) 749-4380 | Fax: (519) 749-4378
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Kuk 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/Kuk-Joda-Stanley/0232597-84326