Is Radiotherapy often used after Chemo has concluded?

Hi there,

My Grandad has been going through Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer which hadn't spread outside of the lung. He has gone through four sets of chemo sessions (a dose every week with the third week being a rest week) since September and is to be finishing his Chemo in the coming weeks.

He hasn't had a CT scan yet as this has been scheduled for after the chemo has finished, however going from recent X-rays, the consultant believes there has been an improvement from what little she can see via the x-ray.

So he's now been scheduled for Radiotherapy and I'm wondering whether this is a common procedure? No set date has been made yet as he is to have a trial run, alongside the CT scan date. 

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I am sorry to hear your grandad has lung cancer and is currently having chemotherapy.

    The treatment plan will vary from patient to patient depending on the type and stage (the size and extent) of the cancer as well as the performance status ( how fit and well they are) of the patient.

    It isn't unusual for patients to have radiotherapy following chemotherapy and this can be an effective treatment in capturing any remaining cancer cells left behind. You can read more about lung cancer treatments here.

    As you say they often will wait until after the chemotherapy has finished to carry out a CT scan to find out how well the cancer has responded to the treatment.

    I hope this is helpful but do get back in touch if you have further questions. You are also very welcome to call our nurse helpline on 0808 800 4040, Monday-Friday 9-5.

    Wishing you and your grandad all the best

    Take care

    Naomi