The founder and lead surgeon of Lewisville Flower Mound Oncology talks about the importance of keeping appointments.

Lewisville, TX – Anyone who has undergone the rigors of cancer treatment understands the incredible temptation related to skipping a treatment appointment or two. Researchers are finding, however, that skipping doses of recommended radiation can dramatically lower the long-term benefits.

A recent study, in fact, took a look at cancer recurrence rates among those who skipped out on two or more prescribed radiation therapy sessions. It was learned that patients who didn’t go in for all their treatments had an increased risk of recurrence of about 16 percent over those who reported for radiation religiously. The recurrence risk was measured over a five-year cumulative period.

“The temptation to miss an appointment or two is, of course, understandable,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at Lewisville Flower Mound Oncology. “After all, treatments can, and often do, take their toll on patients. These treatments can make patients feel sick and they can zap energy for a time. Even so, they are meant to help patients beat cancer and lower the risks associated with its reemergence.”

Echt and many other doctors recommend patients speak directly with their healthcare providers before skipping appointments. If radiation side effects are a concern, doctors may be able to offers suggestions or prescribe medications to counter them. Other obstacles, such as a lack of transportation to appointments, can also very often be overcome if patients speak up.

“Skipping a dose or two of radiation might not seem like a big deal in the short-term,” says Dr. Echt. “Over the long run, however, increased recurrence risks can create real concerns for patients and their doctors.”

Anyone who is diagnosed with cancer should speak with their doctor about all prescribed treatments. It is important to understand the risks and potential benefits of any recommendations made.

About Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group
The Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group has state-of-the-art facilities that offer individualized care to patients throughout North Texas. With a team of expert oncologists and other specialists on staff, the Lewisville/Flower Mound Oncology Group treats a variety of cancers and blood disorders with an eye towards the newest advancements available in diagnostic technology and treatments.