Hyperthermia Therapy for Cancer: A Proven Approach, Evolving with Innovation

I want options that support my cancer care.

At the Marsden Centre, we offer integrative cancer therapies that are grounded in both science and care—including Locoregional Hyperthermia (LRHT).

What Is Hyperthermia Therapy?

Hyperthermia therapy involves gently heating cancer-affected areas to between 40–43°C, helping make cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy more effective. It doesn’t destroy tumors directly, but instead sensitizes cancer cells, improving treatment outcomes while supporting your body’s natural immune defenses.

A Therapy with Deep Roots

The idea that heat could help the body fight cancer dates back over 150 years. In 1866, German physician Dr. Carl Busch documented a case where a patient’s tumor shrank after a high fever caused by infection. This sparked interest in the healing potential of elevated body temperature.

Later, American surgeon Dr. William Coley became known as the "father of modern hyperthermia and immunotherapy" after successfully treating cancer with fever-inducing bacterial compounds. While early methods had risks, they laid the foundation for today’s more targeted and safe hyperthermia techniques.

How It Works

Locoregional hyperthermia doesn’t work in isolation—it enhances and supports other treatments by:

• Improving blood flow to the tumor, increasing oxygen and making radiation therapy more effective

• Helping chemotherapy absorb better into cancer cells

• Disrupting DNA repair in tumors so they’re less able to recover from treatment

• Triggering immune system responses that aid your body’s own defenses

Is Hyperthermia Right for Me?

Hyperthermia is most often used alongside other cancer therapies, such as radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, and intravenous therapies like high-dose vitamin C. It’s used around the world—in Germany, Denmark, the U.S., Japan, and more—and now, patients in Canada can access it closer to home through our integrative programs.

Our Naturopathic Doctors collaborate closely with your oncologist or medical team to ensure hyperthermia is timed and delivered safely, based on your treatment plan, tumor type, and overall health.

What to Expect at the Marsden Centre

Your care plan is always personalized. If hyperthermia is a good fit for you, we’ll:

• Coordinate with your existing care providers

• Plan treatment sessions around your chemo or radiation therapy

• Monitor your comfort and response closely

• Offer additional support through nutrition, supplements, and immune-boosting strategies

Is There Evidence to Support This?

Yes—hyperthermia has been well studied, and research consistently shows that it enhances the effectiveness of conventional cancer treatments. In many cases, it improves tumor response and patient outcomes when used in combination with standard therapies.

Ready to Learn More?

Our team can help you explore whether hyperthermia therapy fits into your integrative cancer care plan.

👉 Visit www.marsdencentre.com to book a consultation and learn how your treatment plan can be supported by innovative therapies like LRHT.

‍