Cancer Services
Radiation Oncology Overview
At ECU Physicians, our experienced radiation oncology team uses radiation therapy, or radiotherapy, to safely and effectively treat cancer and other diseases. It can be used to cure cancer, control the growth of the cancer or relieve symptoms, such as pain. Radiation therapy works by damaging cells. Normal cells can repair themselves whereas cancer cells cannot. New techniques and tools also allow doctors to better target the radiation to protect healthy cells.
Sometimes radiation therapy is the only treatment a patient needs. At other times, it is only one part of a patient’s treatment. For example, prostate and larynx cancer are often treated with radiotherapy alone, while a woman with breast cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
Radiation oncologists are the doctors who oversee your radiation therapy treatments. They work with the other members of the radiation therapy team to develop your treatment plan and ensure each treatment is given accurately. Your radiation oncologist will also monitor your progress and adjust the treatment as necessary to make sure the radiation is hitting its target while minimizing side effects. At ECU, radiation oncologists work closely with other cancer doctors, such as medical oncologists and surgeons, to maximize the effectiveness of the radiation.
252.744.2900
Physician referrals and patient information Toll Free 1.800.223.9328
We are located in the Leo W. Jenkins Cancer Center between Pitt County Memorial Hospital and the Brody Medical Sciences Building. The Center faces Moye Boulevard. Parking is located in front of the facility. See Map (PDF).
