At the Center for Radiation Oncology we envision the goal of modern medicine to be the restoration of health with minimal, long-term detrimental changes to the body and mind. We achieve this goal by tailoring treatment to the individual and by integrating available treatment modalities. Cancer treatment is constantly evolving as we learn more effective ways of combining modalities such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery, immunotherapy and gene therapy. We are committed to offering each patient the cancer treatment approach that is best for him or her. Before treatment is initiated the case is discussed with other cancer specialists who will be providing concurrent care. The risks and benefits of using radiation therapy as part of the overall treatment approach is weighed. Radiation therapy is fundamental to organ preservation; an option for selected patients with cancer of the breast, bladder, larynx or rectum. In summary, our goal is to cure or control cancer while preserving both body image and function to the greatest extent possible. Multidisciplinary cancer care provides the best cancer control with the fewest associated long- term side effects.

Traditional western medicine alone is often not sufficient to eliminate the side effects from cancer treatment or to help patients feel their best while undergoing toxic therapies. At the Center for radiation Oncology, we make every effort to explore all avenues of medical management that may alleviate the side effects of treatment or otherwise improve a patient's mental and/or physical condition.

In an effort to address the emotional and psychological needs of our patients, we have facilitated the organization of multiple support groups. We coordinate with the American Cancer Society regarding programs such as Man to Man (for men with prostate cancer) and Reach for Recovery, a support group for women with breast cancer. Additionally we build alliances with health care professionals who help our patients regain and maintain a healthy frame of mind as they cope with their disease. We are very active in the community, and are primary sponsors for Fortaleza y Esperanza (Cancer Support Group for the Hispanic Community), Team Survivor Tampa Bay (Pink Dragon Ladies), Sisters Network (National African American Breast Cancer Survivorship Organization), and various American Cancer Society projects, such as Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, Reach to Recovery, and the Annual Breast Cancer Fashion Show and Luncheon.

There has been an explosion of interest in the area of nutrition. At this time there is no convincing data that vitamin or mineral supplements improve cancer treatment except in the case of deficiency. Nevertheless, we discuss these issues with our patients in an attempt to provide them with the latest available information.