Supporting people with cancer and learning disability through radiotherapy treatment

Radiotherapy is an incredibly effective treatment option used in the management plans of over 40% of people with cancer. However, the terms ‘cancer’ and ‘radiotherapy treatment’ are unfortunately associated with fear and death. Reducing the stigma surrounding radiotherapy will help individuals manage their treatment more successfully, yet this may require greater input for those people with cancer and a learning disability. This article aims to demystify the processes involved in radiotherapy treatment, educating healthcare professionals so that they can appropriately support and advocate for the people in their care, enabling them to undertake this highly effective and manageable treatment for cancer.