Mathematics in Medicine: Optimising Image Acquisition and Cancer Treatment in Radiotherapy

Abstract: 

Effective radiotherapy is dependent on being able to (i) visualise the tumour clearly, and (ii) deliver the correct dose to the cancerous tissue, whilst sparing the healthy tissue as much as possible. In the presence of motion, both of these tasks become increasingly difficult to perform accurately -  increasing the likelihood of incorrect dose delivered to cancerous tissue and exposure of healthy tissue to unnecessary radiation, causing adverse effects.  In this presentation I will outline a few preliminary mathematical models for optimising radiation treatment (imaging and delivery) and outcomes for the patient. I’ll also discuss some other further areas for research and topics that would benefit greatly from similar interdisciplinary collaboration.