Cancer Care in Crisis: Impacts of Wildfire Events on Radiotherapy Treatment
We are conducting the first-ever investigation of wildfire events’ impact on patients with cancer receiving radiotherapy. Unplanned interruptions in cancer care are known to impact patient outcomes for certain cancers, including lung, head and neck, and cervical cancer. We are working to uncover how wildfires specifically impact cancer care, so we can better protect the health and well-being of those in treatment, even in the face of disasters. Our project includes a survey of California-based radiation oncologists to assess their perceptions and preparedness for such events, as well as analyses of care disruptions for patients receiving radiotherapy during wildfire events and whether wildfire exposure affects survival in lung, cervical, or head and neck cancer patients. We aim to identify patient groups disproportionately impacted by wildfire disasters during RT. These insights will guide the development of targeted interventions and policies aimed at enhancing cancer care both during and after climate-induced crises.
