S2675
RTT - Patient experience and quality of life
ESTRO 2026
Digital Poster 3525 Embedding LGBTQI+ equality in radiotherapy practice: A networks perspective and engagement James Barber Radiotherapy, Royal Free London NHSFT, London, United Kingdom. LGBTQI+ Equalise Workers Group, Society of Radiographers, London, United Kingdom Purpose/Objective: An LGBTQI+ network for radiography professionals has been operating since December 2021. The network is formed of both diagnostic and therapeutic radiography (RTTs) professionals. This work aimed to assess the support provided by the network with issues specifically related to LGBTQI+ Diversity, Equality, Inclusivity and Belonging (DEIB). Material/Methods: Since the network began, it has collaborated with several national bodies in DEIB initiatives on behalf of the LGBTQI+ community.A retrospective review of the network’s activities between December 2021 and October 2025 was conducted. Documentary evidence, including meeting minutes, project reports, communications, and published statements, were analysed to identify areas of impact on national inclusive practices and discourse. These were categorised under three domains, shown in Figure 1. Results: IPS became a UK recommendation under IR(ME)R [1] in February 2018, ensuring pregnancy checks are appropriate for Trans, Non-Binary, and Intersex (TNBI) patients to prevent unintended foetal irradiation. Supporting resources were rolled out in 2022 [2]. The network has actively participated in the development and dissemination of a questionnaire designed to investigate uptake and barriers, which led to the publishing of a report on IPS implementation in 2025.IPS has received negative coverage from national media outlets, most recently in August 2024. The network was central in developing a response statement to this and in facilitating an online response session for radiography professionals.The network has increased professional understanding of LGBTQI+ patient needs and inclusive practice through conference presentations and national communications, helping to build confidence among practitioners. In 2023 the network commenced collaboration on the development of a series of webinars launched in March 2024. They were actively involved in content development, and specifically
Digital Poster 3470
Evaluating Radiation Therapists' Competency in Correcting Patient Misconceptions and Enhancing Treatment Adherence sarra saidi, Hadhemi Ayadi, Najla Attia, Khadija Ben Zid, Asma Gorbel, Nesrine Sellami, Alia Mousli, amani Yousfi, Rim Abidi, Semia Zarraa, Chiraz Nasr Radiation oncology department, Salah Azaeiz Institute, Tunis, Tunisia Purpose/Objective: Patients undergoing radiotherapy often experience uncertainty and hold misconceptions about their treatment. Radiation therapists (RTs) serve as primary contacts, playing a key role in correcting these beliefs to reassure patients and support adherence. This study evaluated RTs’ ability to identify and address common patient misconceptions Material/Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Salah Azaeiz Institute between March and April 2025. Participation was voluntary and anonymous among 25 RTs, with 18 completing an online questionnaire. The survey included scenarios assessing RTs’ ability to debunk common treatment- related misconceptions. Results: RTs showed high consensus in correcting myths about patients becoming radioactive, experiencing pain during treatment, hair loss regardless of the irradiated area, and avoiding physical contact with relatives (17– 18 RTs). Seventeen RTs also addressed misconceptions regarding sexual activity and unsupervised use of supplements or herbal products. Responses varied on nutritional beliefs: eight RTs affirmed the idea that sugar feeds cancer, while ten refuted it; four upheld restrictions on processed meats, versus fourteen who refuted them. Regarding Ramadan fasting, fourteen RTs considered it generally safe, twelve emphasized individualized decisions based on treatment and patient condition, and four regarded it as contraindicated. Conclusion: RTs demonstrated strong competency in correcting fundamental myths, though uncertainty remains around nutrition and lifestyle guidance. Targeted training in communication and supportive oncology is recommended to ensure consistent, high-quality patient education. Keywords: Radiotherapy– Patient misconceptions – Treatment
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