The current and future burden of cancer incidence in developing countries requires the planning, establishment and upgrade of radiotherapy services at the national level. This publication is a practical guide outlining the main issues at stake when planning national radiotherapy services. It provides an assessment of the cancer burden, evaluates the existing resources and determines what is needed and how to cover the gap in a resource-oriented rational way. The publication will be of practical value to decision makers and program managers in public health facing the organization or re-organization of radiotherapy in their countries.

The current and future burden of cancer incidence in developing countries requires the planning, establishment and upgrading of radiotherapy services at the national level. This publication is a practical guide outlining the main issues at stake when planning national radiotherapy services. It provides an assessment of the cancer burden, evaluates the existing resources, and determines what is needed and how to cover the gap in a resource oriented rational way. The publication will be of practical value to decision makers and programme managers in public health facing the organization or reorganization of radiotherapy services in their countries.

Cancer treatment is complex and calls for a diverse set of services. Radiation therapy is recognized as an essential tool in the cure and palliation of cancer. Currently, access to radiation treatment is limited in many countries and non-existent in some. This lack of radiation therapy resources exacerbates the burden of disease and underscores the continuing health care disparity among States. Closing this gap represents an essential measure in addressing this global health equity problem. This publication presents a comprehensive overview of the major topics and issues to be taken into consideration when planning a strategy to address this problem, in particular in low and middle income countries. With contributions from leaders in the field, it provides an introduction to the achievements and issues of radiation therapy as a cancer treatment modality around the world. Dedicated chapters focus on the new radiotherapy technologies, proton beams, carbon ion, intraoperative radiotherapy, radiotherapy for children, treatment of HIV-AIDS malignancies, and costing and quality management issues.

This publication provides guidelines on how to plan a radiotherapy facility in terms of the strategic master planning process including the legal, technical and infrastructure requirements. It outlines a risk assessment methodology and a typical project work plan, and describes the professional expertise required for the implementation of such a project. Generic templates for a block design are suggested, which include possibilities for future expansion. These templates can be overlaid onto the designated site such that the most efficient workflow between the main functional areas can be ensured. A sample checklist is attached to act as a guideline for project management and to indicate the critical stages in the process where technical expert assistance may be needed. The publication is aimed at professionals and administrators involved in infrastructure development, planning and facility management, as well as engineers, building contractors and radiotherapy professionals.

This is a highly practical resource about the specific technical aspects of delivering radiation treatment. Pocket-sized and well organized for ease of use, the book is designed to lead radiation oncology trainees and residents step by step through the basics of radiotherapy planning and delivery for all major malignancies. This new, evidence-based edition retains the valued, practical features of the first edition while incorporating recent advances in the field. Chapters are the result of a joint collaboration between residents and staff radiation oncologists in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the Cleveland Clinic. Sections are organized by body site or systemówhichever is best suited to consistency in presenting planning principles. Also included are such specialized topics as palliative therapy and pediatrics. More than 200 images help to clarify the steps of radiotherapy planning and delivery. Written by and for residents on the "front lines" of their training, it is also a valuable resource for training other professionals in the field such as technologists, nurses, dosimetrists, and others as well as a quick reference for practicing physicians. Key Features of Handbook of Treatment Planning in Radiation Oncology, Second Edition: Provides a consistent, step-by-step approach to effective radiotherapy planning and delivery Presents content in consistent, concise, bulleted format for easy review Includes over 200 color images Explains specific technical aspects of delivering radiation treatment Addresses such specialized topics as palliative therapy and pediatrics New to the Second Edition: Sereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for prostate and GI tumors Intraoperative therapy for GI tumors Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for brain tumors New coverage of MRI based planning in simulation

Planning is a critical stage of radiotherapy. Careful consideration of the complex variables involved and critical assessment of the techniques available are fundamental to good and effective practice.First published in 1985, Practical Radiotherapy Planning has, over three editions, established itself as the popular choice for the trainee raditatio

This publication provides guidance for designing and implementing radiotherapy programmes, taking into account clinical, medical physics, radiation protection and safety aspects. It reflects current requirements for radiotherapy infrastructure in settings with limited resources. It will be of use to professionals involved in the development, implementation and management of radiotherapy programmes

In the United States, much of the research is focused on developing new and very expensive technologies and drugs - often without a major therapeutic benefit. In resource limited countries, basic oncology care is frequently lacking. In addition, the benefits of various chemo-radiotherapy combinations for a number of malignancies are unknown as these populations have not been adequately investigated. For oncologists in these countries who have marginal to adequate resources, accrual to clinical trials is virtually non-existent to minimal, due to the complexities of their population and competing co-morbidities. As a result, there is a tremendous disparity in treatment outcomes for these populations, compared to those in developed countries. Therefore, we have asked a number of oncologists from different parts of the world to report their experience. Topics that will be covered include locally advanced breast and cervical cancer (India, South Africa), human resources for cancer control in India, systematic review of radiation resources in low and middle income countries, planning national radiotherapy services, building sustainable partnerships through the newly formed ICEC (International Cancer Export Corps), cancer disparities among American Indians, and training radiation oncologists in these under served parts of the world. Authors will discuss "lessons learned" from their populations, practical suggestions to address these disparities, and how we as a global oncology community can address, and mitigate these global challenges. The editorial by Dr. Coleman and myself highlights the invaluable contributions from our global contributors. Thank you for taking the time to read this special issue on global cancer disparities. We are all energized to begin addressing the needs of our cancer patients worldwide.

This expanded edition includes new coverage of treatment preparation, 3-D treatment planning, dosimetry, the latest equipment, documentation and quality assurance. Treatment simulation and treatment planning guidelines are provided by body region (head and neck, thorax, pelvis, etc) for easy access to material in the clinical setting.

This open access book provides a valuable resource for hospitals, institutions, and health authorities worldwide in their plans to set up and develop comprehensive cancer care centers. The development and implementation of a comprehensive cancer program allows for a systematic approach to evidence-based strategies of prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and palliation. Comprehensive cancer programs also provide a nexus for the running of clinical trials and implementation of novel cancer therapies with the overall aim of optimizing comprehensive and holistic care of cancer patients and providing them with the best opportunity to improve quality of life and overall survival. This book's self-contained chapter format aims to reinforce the critical importance of comprehensive cancer care centers while providing a practical guide for the essential components needed to achieve them, such as operational considerations, guidelines for best clinical inpatient and outpatient care, and research and quality management structures. Intended to be wide-ranging and applicable at a global level for both high and low income countries, this book is also instructive for regions with limited resources. The Comprehensive Cancer Center: Development, Integration, and Implementation is an essential resource for oncology physicians including hematologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, and oncology nurses as well as hospitals, health departments, university authorities, governments and legislators.