Cancer Care and Oncology Services

Oncology is the medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of cancers. Cancer occurs when cells undergo genetic changes that cause uncontrolled growth and division. These abnormal cells may form tumours, which may be benign or malignant. While benign tumours do not spread, malignant tumours can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body.

Some cancers, such as leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, do not form solid tumours but instead affect the blood or lymphatic systems. Cancer can spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, often reaching the lymph nodes, which play an important role in the body’s immune defence.

Modern oncology care is delivered through three main disciplines:

• Medical Oncology – Treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormonal therapy.
• Surgical Oncology – Biopsies and surgical removal of tumours.
• Radiation Oncology – Treatment using radiation therapy.

Primary Cancer Centre in Kedah

Pantai Hospital Sungai Petani is the first and only comprehensive cancer centre in Kedah, serving patients from Kedah, Perlis, and mainland Penang. Our centre is equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment facilities and supported by highly-skilled oncologists trained in the United Kingdom (UK), ensuring care that meets international standards.

From diagnosis to treatment and ongoing disease management, we are committed to providing high-quality oncology care while placing strong emphasis on maintaining each patient’s quality of life.

Oncology Services

Our oncology services cover a comprehensive range of medical, radiation, and surgical treatments, delivered based on individual diagnosis and disease stage.

The services we provide include:

• Systemic therapy
• Targeted therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Hormonal therapy
• External beam radiotherapy (EBRT)*

Our facilities offer oncological surgery as well as other surgical procedures:

• Chemoport insertion
• CT guided biopsy
• Breast, colorectal and thyroid surgery
• Urological surgery
• Hepatobiliary surgery
• Neurology and neurosurgery

Types of Cancer Treated

At Pantai Hospital Sungai Petani, our oncology team provides comprehensive care for a wide range of cancers, tailored to each patient’s diagnosis and clinical needs. Our specialists manage both solid tumours and blood cancers, using evidence-based, multidisciplinary approaches.

Cancers commonly treated at our centre include:

• Breast cancer
• Colorectal (colon and rectal) cancer
• Lung cancer
• Liver and hepatobiliary cancers
• Prostate and other urological cancers
• Gynaecological cancers, including ovarian and uterine cancers
• Head and neck cancers
• Blood cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma, and myeloma

Treatment recommendations are made following careful evaluation and are aligned with the range of oncology services available across the Pantai Hospitals network.

Tailored Treatment Plan

Every cancer diagnosis is unique, so each patient receives a personalised treatment plan. At Pantai Hospital Sungai Petani, a treatment plan is carefully tailored based on each patient’s condition, overall health, and treatment goals.

Cancer care often involves a multimodal approach, combining surgery, radiation therapy, and systemic anti-cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. Our oncologists conduct detailed consultations to explain available options, expected outcomes, and potential side effects, enabling patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Treatment is delivered at our Oncology Daycare Centre, which provides chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy in a comfortable, supervised environment. For patients requiring hospital admission, In-patient care is managed by specially trained oncology nurses under the leadership of our consultant oncologist.

When to See an Oncology Specialist

Cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type and location of the disease. However, certain warning signs should never be ignored. You should consider consulting an oncology specialist if you notice any of the following:

• New lump or swelling anywhere on your body
• Unusual tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest
• Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite
• Changes in skin or moles, including yellowing, darkening, or redness
• Blood in stool, urine, or unusual bruising
• Persistent pain that doesn’t go away
• Ongoing cough, difficulty breathing, or hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing or discomfort after eating
• Unexplained fever or excessive night sweating

Early consultation can lead to timely diagnosis and more effective treatment. Our oncology specialists at Pantai Hospital Sungai Petani are available to guide you through screening, diagnosis, and care. Contact us to book your appointment today.