Cancer is a growing concern in our country, with an estimated 1.16 million new cases reported each year. However, despite the increasing prevalence of cancer, there is a significant shortage of skilled professionals in the field of radiotherapy, a vital component of comprehensive cancer care. Usually, 50-60 per cent of cancer patients need radiotherapy during treatment. However, in India less than 20 per cent can access it.

There is increasing evidence that there is shortage of Qualified Medical Radiation Therapy Physicists. As of 2023, India had 706 PG medical colleges but only 87 radiotherapy departments (Source: Indian Cancer Journal). This compels us to think if this disparity at the training level is reflected in the lack of skilled medical force and limited accessibility to radiation therapy for cancer patients. We believe that making radiotherapy curriculum compulsory in medical institutions across India is a crucial step towards addressing this issue. By ensuring that all medical professionals are trained in radiotherapy, we can enhance the quality of comprehensive cancer treatment and improve patient outcomes nationwide.

I would be more than happy to provide you with expert opinions to delve deeper on the following points:

• Urgent need to address the shortage of skilled manpower in radiotherapy in India.
• Making radiotherapy compulsory in medical institutions will improve cancer treatment outcomes.
• Enhancing the quality of comprehensive cancer care through mandatory radiotherapy training.

This story will address the vital gap in our cancer care infrastructure as well as in our medical studies framework. We would greatly appreciate your support in spreading awareness about this critical issue through your esteemed publication.

Would request if we can take this forward. Looking forward to hear from you.