Cancer is more than a disease of cells — it is a global challenge that touches millions of lives, shaping the emotional, psychological, and physical well-being of people, families, and communities. As a radiation therapy researcher and lecturer, cancer isn’t just a topic of study, it’s a deeply personal matter, it’s a force that reshapes lives, including my own.

One crucial yet often overlooked aspect of cancer care is psycho-oncology and supportive care training for radiation therapists. The “United by Unique” theme of World Cancer Day 2025 emphasises the need to honor individuality in care while advancing collective progress—a philosophy that anchors my focus on psycho-oncology, supportive care training, and virtual reality (VR) innovation. Every patient’s journey is unique, and it’s our responsibility to see the person, not just the disease as they navigate the fear of diagnosis, endure  the courage of treatment, and developed the resilience of survivors [1][3].

The Human Element: Psycho-Oncology and Supportive Care

Radiation therapists play a pivotal role in the cancer care continuum, forming meaningful connections with patients throughout their treatment journey. Up to one-third of radiation therapy patients report unmet psychosocial needs, ranging from anxiety to existential distress1. RTs, who interact with patients daily, are uniquely positioned to address these challenges.

Their role transcends technical expertise; they become confidants, educators, and emotional anchors during treatment. However, their training traditionally often prioritizes technical skills over emotional intelligence, which can create a gap in holistic patient care. A patient’s psychological well-being directly impacts treatment adherence and outcomes. Cancer patients experience a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and fear of recurrence. Without proper training, radiation therapists may struggle to address these concerns effectively,which can hinder comprehensive patient care.

My focus is on two critical areas: psycho-oncology and supportive care training for radiation therapists, and the use of virtual reality (VR) in training and patient education. Radiation therapy can be a daunting experience, and the emotional and psychological toll on patients and their families is significant [4]. Radiation therapists are on the front lines of cancer care, and they need specific training to provide holistic support. This includes:

i. Empathetic Communication Skills:  Therapists must learn to navigate difficult conversations—from explaining treatment side effects to addressing existential fears. Role-playing exercises and workshops on active listening can transform clinical interactions into moments of genuine connection. [2].

ii. Mental Health Advocacy: Cancer patients often experience clinically significant anxiety or depression. Radiation therapists need the skills to recognize these signs and collaborate with psychosocial teams. Integrating mental health screenings into routine care ensures timely intervention. [2].

iii. Burnout Prevention:  Compassion fatigue is a serious concern. Training programs should include teaching therapists to process grief, set emotional boundaries, and prioritize their well-being. Resilient caregivers create sustainable care systems. [2].

Virtual Reality Simulation: A Game Changer in Training and Patient Education

Technology continues to redefine healthcare, and VR simulation has emerged as a powerful tool in radiation therapy education. Traditional radiation therapy training relies heavily on clinical experience, but access to hands-on training can be limited due to time constraints, equipment availability, and patient safety concerns. Innovation has become an important key to bridging empathy gaps. VR simulation provides an immersive, risk-free environment where radiation therapists can practice complex procedures, refine their techniques, and enhance their decision-making skill.

The integration of VR into radiation therapy training and patient education is an exciting frontier. VR can provide realistic simulations where trainees can practice complex procedures and communication skills in a safe, controlled environment [2], patient education to help patients visualize their treatment plan, understand the equipment, and reduce anxiety about the unknown [2]. VR is also important tools for empathy building as by stepping into a virtual environment that mimics a patient’s experience, therapists can develop a deeper understanding of their challenges [4].

Bridging the Gap for a Better Future

Investing in psycho-oncology training and VR simulation for radiation therapy education is a necessary step toward advancing cancer care. Ensuring that radiation therapists are well trained in psycho-oncology and supportive care is not just an academic pursuit; it is a moral imperative. By prioritizing both the emotional and technical aspects of treatment, we can develop a healthcare workforce that is highly skilled and deeply compassionate. Patients deserve to be seen, heard, and supported throughout their journey, and radiation therapists must be equipped to meet these needs.

Cancer matters because it tests our capacity for empathy and innovation. By combining cutting-edge tools with deeply human-centered training, we honor each patient’s unique journey, ensuring that every patient receives dignity, compassion, and comprehensive care. It aligns perfectly with the “United by Unique” campaign, which champions individual needs in the fight against cancer [1][2][3]. Through education, advocacy, and innovation, we can transform cancer treatment—making it not just a clinical process but a deeply human one.

References:

1. https://www.uicc.org/news-and-updates/events/world-cancer-day-2025
2. https://www.uicc.org/news-and-updates/news/world-cancer-day-2025-just-around corner/new-campaign
3. https://cancerblog.mayoclinic.org/2025/02/04/world-cancer-day-2025-people-with-cancer-are-united-by-unique/
4. https://www.worldcancerday.org