23rd Annual Student Research Conference
An Integrated Approach to Understanding the Physics of Cancer Radiation Therapy
Reed E. Cope
Dr. Matthew M. Beaky, Faculty Mentor
Cancer radiation therapy, or the delivery of ionizing radiation to cancer cells, has seen rapid developments in technology and usage over the last 40 years. Radiotherapy is currently given to approximately half of all cancer patients, either alone or combined with other forms of treatment. This therapy has advanced efforts in curing cancer, enhancing patient comfort, and improving cosmetic outcomes. Radiation can be delivered in many ways, including external (via x-rays or gamma rays), internal, and systemic radiation. While the various treatment methods are unique and often specific to the needs of the patient, the underlying physical principles are similar and important to understand if the biological and human goals are to be achieved. I will present the physics behind radiation therapies in a unified and accessible manner.
Keywords: cancer, radiation, therapy, radiotherapy, physics
Topic(s):Physics
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 18-3
Location: MG 1096
Time: 10:00