Dr. Yasser Rifaat Abou Mourad – Oncologist / Hematologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Yasser Rifaat Abou Mourad is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemias and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre or hospital department in Vancouver, BC, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (Blood Disorders) care. His practice is situated within a facility that adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Abou Mourad addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions, tailored to adult patients with suspected or diagnosed blood conditions. Access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options is a key component of the care he provides to ensure optimal outcomes for his patients.

He graduated with a medical degree from a reputable Medical University in 1996 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Dr. Abou Mourad holds certifications including those recognized by the College Registration Committee of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, affirming his specialized expertise in the field. His ongoing commitment to professional development ensures that he remains current with the latest advancements in hematology and blood disorder treatment.

Dedicated to a patient-centered approach, Dr. Abou Mourad emphasizes multidisciplinary care, evidence-based treatment, and compassionate support for both patients and their families. He is committed to advancing research and applying the best clinical practices to improve patient outcomes. Fluent in English, he strives to communicate clearly and effectively with his patients and colleagues in Vancouver, ensuring a supportive and informative care experience.

Dr. Yasser Abou Mourad has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• 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.
• Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A type of cancer that starts in certain blood-forming cells of the bone marrow, often managed with targeted therapies.

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• Hereditary Hemochromatosis & Other Iron Overload States: Genetic or acquired conditions leading to excessive iron accumulation in the body, requiring management to prevent organ damage.
• Hemolytic Anemia (e.g., Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia - AIHA): A disorder in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can produce them.
• Von Willebrand Disease & Other Inherited Bleeding Disorders: Genetic conditions that impair the blood's ability to clot effectively, causing prolonged or excessive bleeding.

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. Yasser Abou Mourad or your referring physician.

• Diagnosis & Multimodal Management of Leukemias (AML, ALL, CLL, CML, Hairy Cell): Comprehensive care for various types of leukemia, including diagnostic workup (bone marrow interpretation, cytogenetics, molecular testing), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and coordination for stem cell transplant where indicated.
• Neutropenia & Other White Blood Cell Disorders Evaluation: Investigating and managing low or abnormal white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infections.
• 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.
• Bone Marrow Aspiration & Biopsy (Performance or Interpretation): Performing or interpreting samples from bone marrow aspirations and biopsies to diagnose blood disorders and cancers.
• Comprehensive Diagnosis & Management of Anemias: Investigating and treating various types of anemia, such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12/folate deficiency, hemolytic anemias (e.g., autoimmune hemolytic anemia), sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and aplastic anemia.
• Autologous & Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant Consultation, Coordination & Post-Transplant Care (as part of a transplant team or referral network): Evaluating eligibility for, coordinating referrals to, and providing follow-up care for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation for hematologic malignancies.
• Interpretation of Special Hematologic Tests (e.g., Flow Cytometry, Cytogenetics, Molecular Studies): Analyzing results from advanced laboratory tests crucial for diagnosing and classifying hematologic conditions.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Abou Mourad provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Abou Mourad 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.

Dr. Abou Mourad's practice is situated within a specialized cancer centre in the vibrant Vancouver neighbourhood of Fairview. The facility is conveniently accessible via public transit, including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express services at Waterfront station. The location is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby to accommodate visitors arriving by car. The practice's setting offers a welcoming environment equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities, supporting comprehensive blood disorder and cancer care for adult patients in Vancouver and surrounding areas.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Abou Mourad, an Hematologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

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 Hematologist such as Dr. Abou Mourad are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP), Dr. Abou Mourad'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. Abou Mourad, an Hematologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Abou Mourad 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 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. Abou Mourad 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 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. Abou Mourad specializes in planning and delivering radiation therapy using techniques like EBRT, IMRT, SBRT, or brachytherapy. If this treatment is indicated for your type of cancer, Dr. Abou Mourad may refer you to a Radiation Oncologist as part of your multidisciplinary care team.

How will treatment decisions be made for my condition by Dr. Abou Mourad?

Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and made collaboratively. Dr. Abou Mourad will consider many factors, including the type and stage of your cancer or blood disorder, your overall health, genetic markers of the disease (if applicable), current treatment guidelines, and importantly, your personal preferences and values. Often, cases are discussed in multidisciplinary team meetings (tumor boards) with other specialists to ensure a comprehensive approach. You will be an active participant in this decision-making process.

What kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Abou Mourad?

Supportive care is a crucial part of treatment, aiming to manage symptoms, reduce side effects, improve quality of life, and address emotional and practical needs. This can include effective pain and symptom management, nutritional support and counseling, psychological support (counseling, therapy), social work services for practical and emotional support, physiotherapy or occupational therapy, access to patient support groups, and spiritual care. Dr. Abou Mourad and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect you with these valuable resources.

How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Abou Mourad?

Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Abou Mourad, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, specialized oncology nurses, pharmacists, social workers, dietitians, genetic counselors, and palliative care specialists. Regular team meetings (often called tumor boards or MDT meetings) usually occur to discuss individual patient cases and develop comprehensive, coordinated treatment plans. Dr. Abou Mourad works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.

What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Abou Mourad discuss it?

Palliative care is specialized medical care focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, like cancer or advanced blood disorders. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family. It can be provided at any stage of illness, alongside curative treatments, not just at the end of life. Dr. Abou Mourad may discuss palliative care if you are experiencing significant symptoms, to help manage pain, fatigue, nausea, anxiety, or other issues, and to provide an extra layer of support.

10 Floor-2775 Laurel St W, Vancouver General Hospital, Leukemia/BMT Program
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Phone: (604) 875-4863 | Fax: (604) 875-4763

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Abou Mourad is a licensed Hematologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/327973/Abou%20Mourad%2CYasser