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Gender differences in radiotherapy: A critical review
Emma D'Ippolito1, Roberta Grassi1, Cristiano Grossi2
1Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Naples 80138, Italy.
Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology
|July 14, 2025
Summary
Radiotherapy effectiveness varies by individual, with documented sex differences in radiosensitivity. Current guidelines often overlook this crucial sex/gender factor, impacting treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Radiotherapy is a key cancer treatment, but individual radiosensitivity varies.
- Sex-based differences in radiosensitivity are known but often ignored in clinical practice.
- Current radiotherapy guidelines and trials frequently lack sex/gender considerations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically discuss the evidence on gender's role in radiotherapy.
- To highlight the impact of sex/gender on treatment tolerance and efficacy.
- To advocate for personalized, gender-aware cancer care.
Main Methods:
- Literature review using PubMed.
- Hand searching of relevant studies.
- Inclusion of data from clinicaltrials.gov.
Main Results:
- A narrative report and critical discussion of existing evidence.
- Analysis of the interplay between gender and radiotherapy outcomes.
- Evidence presented on treatment tolerance and efficacy disparities.
Conclusions:
- Personalized treatment strategies are needed.
- Gender-aware clinical trials are essential for equitable outcomes.
- Optimizing patient care requires integrating sex/gender factors.
