The Canadian brachytherapy experience: Results of the Canadian brachytherapy group national survey.

[PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE] Brachytherapy (BT) techniques, skillsets and resource requirements have advanced over the past decade. This study aimed to characterize the current extent of BT availability, expertise and utilization in Canada.

[MATERIALS AND METHODS] A 68-question survey covering expertise, training, resources and future challenges to BT programs was created and sent to a single representative at each of the 36 of 49 radiotherapy centers in Canada identified to have an active BT program. Responses were then analyzed in aggregate.

[RESULTS] Thirty-one responses (response rate 86%) representing all provinces with at least 1 available BT program (9) were obtained. The median number of radiation oncologists practicing BT in each center was 5 (3-6); this represented 33% (24%-43%) of the workforce at each center. Thirty (97%) centers had at least 1 fellowship trained brachytherapist on site. Eleven (35%) respondent centers offered BT fellowship programs and 7 (64%) of those offered the nationally accredited brachytherapy designations at the end of training. All 30 respondents (100%) offered BT treatment for endometrial cancer, 26 (87%) for cervical cancer, 25 (83%) for prostate cancer and 20 (67%) for vaginal cancer. In 2024, the median number of endometrial, cervical, prostate and vaginal cancers cases treated were 38 (22-50), 19 (7-33), 66 (41-138) and 1 (0-3), respectively. Sixteen (62%) respondents anticipated an increase in demand for BT resources within the next 5 years.

[CONCLUSION] BT programs across Canada are supported by highly trained brachytherapists. BT programs most commonly treat gynecologic and genitourinary malignancies.