A Call to Change the Perception of Radiotherapy

Dear Colleagues,

Words influence perceptions. In our daily work, some of the terminology we use in radiotherapy can sound unnecessarily alarming or even misleading to patients, caregivers, policymakers, the general public, and colleagues outside our specialty. By adopting more balanced and patient-friendly language, we can improve understanding and build greater trust in our field.

We therefore propose to reconsider some of the language we use in our field, illustrated by a few simple examples:

• Toxicity → Side effects or adverse events
• Dose constraints → Dose guidance
• Organs at risk → Organs of interest
• (Set-up) errors → (Set-up) variations or misalignments

When discussing study results, shift the narrative from adverse events alone to the overall benefit–risk balance, ensuring that the benefits receive as much attention as the adverse events.

This proposed change is not about reducing scientific accuracy, but about enhancing how we communicate, making our language more positive, empathetic, precise, and accessible to all audiences.

As Chairs of the ESTRO 2027 Scientific Programme Committee and the Interdisciplinary Track, we warmly encourage you to consider these principles when preparing sessions and abstracts for the ESTRO Annual Meeting, as well as for any other scientific communication.

Even small changes in language can have a meaningful impact by improving understanding, strengthening trust, and ultimately benefiting our patients and the wider oncology community.

Best regards

Barbara Jereczek-Fossa, Matthias Guckenberger, Carmen Rubio

ESTRO Presidents