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On this episode of Oncology Unscripted, patient advocates Julie Johnson and Katie Coleman and radiation oncologist Dr. Matt Spraker continue The Insider's Guide to Radiation Therapy!

Here are the figures/graphics we referenced during the show:

• The first figure we discussed, demonstrating the Bragg Peak and the difference between proton and photon (x-ray) beams.
• The second figure we discussed, comparing 3D photon (x-ray) radiation, intensity modulated radiotherapy with photons (x-ray), passive scatter and intensity modulated proton therapy.

Here are some other things we discussed during the show:

• Relative biological effectiveness in radiobiology
• A video about "IMRT for proton therapy", or pencil beam scanning proton therapy, from manufacturer IBA.
• Brada review of proton evidence, questioning whether the US should open so many proton centers so quickly.
• Goitein and Cox response to Brada, arguing that the benefit of proton therapy is self-evident.
• Glatstein, Glick, Kaiser, and Hahn, arguing that trials are needed to prove the benefit of proton therapy.
• Liao et al., randomized phase II trial of proton versus photon (x-ray) radiotherapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
• RTOG 1308, randomized phase III trial of proton versus photon (x-ray) radiotherapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Now filled, awaiting results!
• Lin et al., randomized phase IIB trial of proton versus photon (x-ray) radiotherapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer.
• NRG GI-006, randomized phase III trial of proton versus photon (x-ray) radiotherapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer, enrolling now!

Oncology Unscripted is a Photon Media production. Intro and Outro music by Emmy-award winning artist Lucas Cantor Santiago.

Additional content from Katie Coleman can be found at her website, https://www.katiekickscancer.com/.

This show and our opinions are meant for general informational purposes and are not medical advice. We encourage you to reach out to your doctors to discuss your individual case.