Radiation Therapy for Cancer

Authors: David Jaffray, Mary Gospodarowicz

Citation:
Jaffray, D. , Gospodarowicz, M. , . “Radiation Therapy for Cancer”. In: Disease Control Priorities (third edition): Volume 3, Cancer, edited by H. Gelband , P. Jha , R. Sankaranarayanan , S. Horton . Washington, DC: World Bank.
Jaffray, D. , Gospodarowicz, M. , . “Radiation Therapy for Cancer”. In: Disease Control Priorities (third edition): Volume 3, Cancer, edited by H. Gelband , P. Jha , R. Sankaranarayanan , S. Horton . Washington, DC: World Bank.
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Abstract: 

The essential role of radiation therapy (RT) in cancer treatment is a cost-effective modality despite the substantial outlay in facilities and equipment. RT can be used as a sole therapy, in conjunction with chemotherapy, following surgery, or in palliation. Three delivery methods – external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy, and radioisotope therapy – are the most common, offered in specially designed facilities by specially trained teams of professionals. In cancer centers, RT departments collaborate with pathology, imagining, surgery, and palliative care groups. An access gap exists between high-income countries and low- and middle-income countries, with special attention needed for medical education, regulatory structure, and infrastructure in less developed countries. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has brought attention to this inequity and organized the Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy to assess country readiness to develop RT facilities in light of resources available for cancer control. Planning has improved access in Brazil, Ireland, Canada, Kenya, and Poland.

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