Challenges and solutions in palliative radiotherapy

There are many common characteristics of radiotherapy and palliative care. Both are applicable from a diagnosis to terminal stage of cancer, helpful for QOL maintenance/improvement regardless of a stage, and also expected to prolong life. Thus, both are highly useful tools in cancer treatment. Unfortunately, both remain insufficient for patients who require them. This paper outlines the current situations and challenges, and discusses solutions in palliative radiotherapy and palliative care. (author)