Care for Cancer Patients undergoing radiation therapy

Skin changes in the treatment area are common and expected. The type of skin reaction depends on:

• The treated body part.
• The type of radiation therapy.
• The radiation dose received.

Patients must inform their radiation oncologist if they:

• Smoke cigarettes or use vaping devices.
• Have high blood pressure or diabetes.
• Have vascular diseases or connective tissue disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis).
• Have a history of skin cancer in the treatment area.
• Have previously undergone radiation therapy in the same area.

These factors may affect skin reactions and healing.