Education in radiation oncology in Europe.

Abstract

The outcome of an inventory among 22 European countries with respect to the radiotherapy facilities and the training of new radiation oncologists in each country is described. The radiotherapeutic profession, which mostly prescribes also cytostatics or hormones, has become well-regulated in the last 20 years. Most radiation oncologists are also involved in the diagnostic work-up and follow-up of the cancer patient. The numbers of radiotherapists and other staff, treatment capacities, and patients are given. The training for radiation oncologists is mostly taken at the university centers, but the curricula are rather diverse.