SPX Award 2022 - Institut Gustave Roussy – France

Pelvic radiotherapy and/or brachytherapy are the usual treatments for gynaecological (excluding ovarian) cancers and those of the lower gastrointestinal tract. Unfortunately, there is a real lack of information on the course of treatment as well as their - sometimes major - side effects. Few women are fully prepared for them whereas the physical or psychological sequels may persist for a long time after treatment. To our knowledge, there are no high-quality resources for patients that provide the theoretical and practical information needed to manage these related effects. To respond to this need, we are in the process of developing a multi-faceted response (information booklet, guides, workshops, etc.) intended for patients and the carers supporting them. The first stage of this work consists of writing a leaflet that focuses on the gynaecological effects of pelvic radiotherapy and brachytherapy. It does not claim to be comprehensive and does not replace medical follow-up which is essential. It is based on a mixture of subjective and objective, theoretical but especially practical doctor-patient experiences and aims to provide concrete solutions and tips to get through the treatment milestones and apply to as many women as possible.