Radiation Therapists Play a Critical Role in Our Lives

(NewsUSA) - We take X-rays for granted, but they were unknown until German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen discovered them 130 years ago. Today, they’re associated with detecting problems with bones, teeth, and more, but one of their most important uses is curing common skin cancer.

More than 9,000 Americans each day are diagnosed with nonmelanoma skin cancer and, traditionally, they would be facing Mohs surgery to cure their disease. However, many cases are now successfully treated without surgery, thanks to research-backed, highly effective, noninvasive radiation therapies such as Image-Guided SRT, SRT, and Electronic Brachytherapy.

These nonsurgical treatments are available at select dermatology practices nationwide.

Highly skilled radiation therapists, in collaboration with dermatologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, utilize the latest advancements in X-ray and high-definition ultrasound technology to precisely target and destroy cancer cells—without scalpel, pain, or surgical scarring. Image-Guided SRT boasts a cure rate of 99% or higher, comparable to Mohs surgery, while Electronic Brachytherapy achieves a 98.8% cure rate within two years. With each of these treatments, radiation therapists play critical roles in advancing patient care.

Dr. Jacob Scott, Chairman of the Dermatology Association of Radiation Therapy (DART), a nationwide association of medical practitioners in the field of skin cancer, says, “Radiation therapists are key medical team members in the fight against common skin cancer. They often have the most face time with patients and with their professional training, radiation therapists are well positioned to participate in treatment planning and execution. They are instrumental in assessing patient needs and progress, and in assuring patient compliance with the plan.”

DART member Kelsay Craig holds a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy and a Radiologic Technology Certificate from the University of Iowa and is a radiation therapist with DoctorsNow in West Des Moines, Iowa. Craig notes, "It is such a privilege and pleasure to work with patients knowing that with each treatment, they are on the path to being cancer-free. Radiation therapy has been a hidden gem in most dermatology communities, and I'm thrilled to be able to present Image-Guided SRT as a noninvasive treatment option for nonmelanoma skin cancers.”

The week of November 3 is National Radiologic Technology Week. If you know or have been treated by a radiation therapist, give them your thanks.

Photo Caption: Radiation Therapist Madeleine Appleseth uses high-tech system to cure common skin cancer painlessly