Letter to the Editor Regarding Quantifying the Carbon Footprint of External Beam Radiation Therapy-A Narrative Review

Ana Luísa Soares ¹, Isabel Bravo ², José Guilherme Couto ³

⁰Medical Physics Service, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal.

Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences +

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October 10, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This letter discusses the environmental impact of external beam radiation therapy, focusing on greenhouse gas emissions from imaging, treatment, and travel. It stresses the need for radiation therapists to develop green skills for environmental responsibility.

Area Of Science

Environmental Science
Oncology
Healthcare Sustainability

Background

Radiation therapy contributes to healthcare's carbon footprint.
Key emission sources include pre-treatment imaging, treatment delivery, and patient travel.

Purpose Of The Study

To highlight the importance of understanding the carbon footprint of external beam radiation therapy.
To emphasize the role of radiation therapists in reducing environmental impact.

Main Methods

This is a letter commenting on a narrative review.
It synthesizes information on greenhouse gas emissions in radiation therapy.

Main Results

External beam radiation therapy has a significant environmental impact.
Green skills for radiation therapists are crucial for sustainability.

Conclusions

Empowering radiation therapists with green skills is essential.
Fostering environmental responsibility in radiation therapy departments is a key goal.