Lakeridge Health’s New Anoscopy Clinic Enhances Access to Life-Saving Screening

Lakeridge Health is advancing health-care accessibility in Durham Region with the launch of its High-Resolution Anoscopy Clinic. Led by Dr. Jeffrey Craig, an infectious disease specialist with expertise in HIV care, this clinic provides essential screening and treatment for anal cancer, a critical service for high-risk populations, particularly people living with HIV.

"This is an amazing opportunity, and I’m immensely proud of the dedication our teams have shown in making this happen," says Dr. Craig. “Working closely with Lakeridge Health’s Positive Care Clinic, a ‘one-stop shop’ for clients seeking HIV, AIDS, and Hepatitis C care, patients are now able to be assessed and referred directly to the Anoscopy Clinic, ensuring they receive timely, local care based on their results.”

The anoscopy procedure itself is quick, painless, and efficient, allowing for same-day screening and treatment. Using a small, lighted magnifying instrument called an anoscope, doctors can closely examine the anus and lower rectum to detect precancerous lesions or early signs of anal cancer.

“The clinic offers more than just convenience; it provides peace of mind,” explains Tab Carroll, Health System Executive, Clinical, Lakeridge Health. “For too long, patients had to travel great distances for this specialized care. By bringing this service to Durham Region, we’re removing those barriers and making early detection more accessible, which is crucial for improving the outcomes of anal cancer.”

Dr. Craig emphasizes that early detection is crucial. With this procedure, issues can be identified before they become critical, preventing the development of cancer and improving the survival rates for high-risk patients. This clinic stands as an example of how innovative, patient-centered health care can directly improve the lives of people who need it the most.

Looking ahead, Dr. Craig notes that the goal is to eventually expand the Anoscopy Clinic to serve even more high-risk groups, including organ transplant recipients, stem cell transplant patients, and women with vulvar malignancies.

Learn more about the Anoscopy Clinic here.