Financial Toxicity and Cancer Therapy: A Primer for Radiation Oncologists

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer places patients at risk for serious financial consequences, which are detrimental to overall health and well-being. The concept of financial toxicity (FT) describes monetary and health implications related to the financial burden of receiving care. To investigate this important area, the authors first explore aspects of the modern American health care insurance system that relate to cancer care. Then they summarize relevant literature across multiple domains of FT that include monetary, functional, and patient-reported measures. The authors conclude by making simple recommendations to begin addressing FT in clinical practice.