Which specialist performs radiotherapy?

The radiation oncologist assesses whether radiation is suitable, defines the treatment area and discusses the intended benefit and possible side effects. A radiation therapist positions you and delivers each planned session. A medical physicist checks the safety and accuracy of the equipment, while a dosimetrist helps calculate the treatment plan.

Radiotherapy may be external, using a machine outside the body, or internal, using a source placed near the treatment area. The team chooses the approach based on the cancer, body site and treatment goals.

Attend the planning appointment, which may include scans and positioning devices. Tell the team about previous radiotherapy, implanted devices, pregnancy, medicines and skin problems. Ask how to care for the treated skin, manage fatigue and protect your nutrition during the course.

Keep the treatment appointments and report new symptoms early. Do not apply creams or remove treatment marks unless the radiotherapy team gives specific instructions.

Call your radiotherapy team for rapidly worsening pain, severe skin reaction, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, new weakness, or symptoms affecting breathing or swallowing. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion or sudden loss of function.

What type of radiotherapy is planned and what area will it treat? How will the team protect nearby healthy tissue? What side effects should I report immediately? Can I work, exercise and travel during treatment?