Radiation therapy for lung cancer has seen recent advancements that have improved accuracy and treatment outcomes.

Dr. Dan Schiffner from Sutter Health Palo Alto Medical Foundation joined GO2’s September 2024 Lung Cancer Living Room to discuss a radiation oncologist’s role in treating lung cancer. He explained the different types of radiation, why the stage of lung cancer matters when making treatment decisions, radiation’s side effects, and much more.

Speakers:  
  • Daniel C. Schiffner, M.D. Medical Director, Radiation Oncology Service Line Department Chair, Radiation Oncology, Sutter Health Palo Alto Medical Foundation
  • Danielle Hicks, Chief Patient Officer, GO2 for Lung Cancer
Discussed in this episode:  
  • Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays (photons) or particle beams (protons) to kill, shrink, or control the growth of tumors, to manage pain, or to prevent cancer from spreading to other organs. It may be used alone or in addition to other treatments when the cancer cannot be removed by surgery or when surgery is not recommended due to other health conditions. Radiation may also be used before or after surgery.
  • The stage of lung cancer describes if and where the cancer has spread. The cancer must be staged before a decision is made about treatment options. Imaging tests, biopsies, and other tests help to tell the stage.
  • Radiation treatment can sometimes cause side effects. Learn more about these and how to manage them.
  • A radiation oncologist is part of your a multidisciplinary care team (MDT) which is a group of doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals from different fields who work together to provide high quality and coordinated care.

Please join us on November 19 at 5:30 p.m. PT/8:30 p.m. ET for the next Lung Cancer Living Room, “Shared Decision Making, Second Opinions.” Join in person at our San Carlos, CA office or watch on  YouTube Live.  

For more information on the Living Room, other GO2 for Lung Cancer programs, or support through diagnosis and treatment, please contact GO2’s HelpLine at 1-800-298-2436 or email support@go2.org.

You can now receive text reminders about upcoming Living Room events by texting the word “LivingRoom” to 844-871-7558.