What are the primary aims of radiation oncology?

• A. diagnosis only
• B. therapy only
• C. research only
• D. cure or palliative care

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is that radiation oncology aims to treat cancer with the goal of either eradicating it or relieving symptoms. Radiation therapy is used to destroy cancer cells, but the intent can be curative when the disease is localized or manageable, or palliative when cure isn’t possible, to relieve pain, bleeding, obstruction, or other symptoms and improve quality of life. Diagnosis is handled by imaging and pathology, not the primary aim of this field, and while research advances how we use radiation, the practical focus is on curing or palliation—not just therapy alone or research alone.