Palliative radiotherapy

Palliative radiotherapy offers a quick, inexpensive, and effective way of reducing many of the focal symptoms of advanced, incurable cancer, whether these arise from the primary tumour or from metastatic deposits. It can improve quality of life while being associated with limited treatment burden in terms of both hospital attendances and side effects. The average UK general practice oversees care for around 20 patients with terminal cancer each year with higher numbers seen in secondary care, while a Canadian survey of general practitioners found that 85% had provided care for patients with advanced cancer within the previous month. This article aims to update non-specialists on the benefits, practicalities, and side effects of palliative radiotherapy to ensure that patients are considered and referred for these treatments when appropriate.