New cancer center opens in Queens

QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) — It’s National Cancer Control Month, and there was a huge victory for equitable cancer care in Jamaica after a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the brand-new cancer center.

Dr. Sabiha Raoof is the chief medical officer at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. She was diagnosed with her own breast cancer in 2006.

Now, she said it’s become her life’s purpose to focus on prevention. She said that the new cancer center is a huge step in helping save lives. Raoof caught it early. She had two young children, and she was scared for her life. She had a double mastectomy and chemo. A survivor, she’s now launched into action. To help lead the creation of this new cancer center.

It’s a 7,000 sq ft facility with 24 exam rooms for chemo and treatment. The center will open to patients in just two weeks.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards donated $3 million, and Mayor Eric Adams and the city council donated $2.5 million to buy new equipment for radiation therapy.

Richards said it’s personal.

“I’m reminded of my own grandmother suffering from cancer and me having to travel on that train two hours one way to see her,” said Richards. 

According to NY State’s Department of Health and the American Cancer Society, over 40,000 NYC residents have cancer. Over 11,000 Queens residents are diagnosed with cancer each year. 

They also offer mental health support, genetic counseling, and even acupuncture. Every time a patient finishes treatment, they ring a bell. Raoof said she hopes there will be more sounds of hope and healing in her community.