Your radiation oncology team will answer all of your questions to help you feel comfortable during your treatments.
Your treatment team is led by a radiation oncologist who will guide all of your radiation therapy treatments.
It is always okay to ask questions if you are confused or concerned before, during or after treatment.
Your radiation oncology nurse is available to answer questions and help manage any side effects of treatment.
Your radiation oncologist uses sophisticated medical equipment to make sure the radiation goes directly to your tumor while avoiding healthy organs.
Radiation therapy treatments are generally painless, much like receiving an X-ray. The most common side effects are skin irritation, like a sunburn, and fatigue.
To ensure every patient is treated the best way, radiation oncologists have many checks and balances as part of treatment to ensure safety. Patients are encouraged to ask their treatment teams about the quality assurance programs where they are receiving radiation therapy.
ASTRO has produced an educational video to help patients better understand external beam radiation therapy. This 17 minute video explains the radiation treatment process from start to finish while addressing frequently asked questions.
Watch the video.
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2012 about 229,060 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer and about 39,920 people will die from the disease. Learn how radiation is used to treat breast cancer and view our patient brochure.
If you have been affected by cancer, it's important to talk to your elected representatives about your experiences.
View more information
© Copyright ASTRO 2003- Our Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Last Modified: 4/13/2012 11:00 AM