A core curriculum for RTTs (radiation therapists/radiotherapy radiographers) designed for developing countries under the auspices of the international atomic energy agency (IAEA)

Abstract

The cancer burden in developing countries is increasing dramatically, and with it the need for high-quality radiotherapy for cancer patients. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)’s major thrust in the field of cancer control is addressing this need for radiotherapy in the developing countries. Since 1981 the IAEA has delivered over $57 million of radiotherapy-related assistance through its technical cooperation (TC) programme. Over 22% of the TC programme is devoted directly to human health and half of that is devoted to providing or improving the delivery of radiotherapy services. During the last five years the IAEA has invested an average of $10.4 million annually in radiotherapyrelated TC projects. The Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy published by the IAEA in 2004 states that it will seek as one of its aims to ‘‘provide training, management skills and other resources that will help institutions take best advantage of the initial investments in trained staff and equipment for the safe and effective continuation of operations