IMRT wasn't as commonplace 4+ years ago, so the odds were he didn't have it. You must also consider that the radiated areas are lead blocked differently depending on where the cancer primary was, and how diffuse they thought it to be, as well as what stage he was, which would have also added to the area radiated, and the volume of radiation. There are so many variables (these are just a few), let alone an individual's unique biology, that generalizations cannot be made. I can tell you from my own experience, now 6 years out from a maximum dose of conventional radiation, that there are issues besides xerostomia for me. Facial nerve exposure given the wide area of irradiation and total gy's has damaged that nerve bundle and I cannot completely control the right corner of my mouth. I have seen patients in hospitals that appear to have had a stroke leaving an entire side of their face drooping... not a stroke, but radiation induced nerve damage. I also have some issues with my right eye, again related to radiation exposure. Both of these issues began about 4 years out from treatment, and I am told may get progressively worse as time passes. There are plenty of peer-reviewed articles documenting the worst of all scenarios, and that is a radiation-induced malignancy. About 3% of high dose patients develop osteosarcomas in their mandibles around year 10. While all these are undesirable effects of the treatment, I just have to remember that without it I wouldn't be here at all today. I would have not had 6 years of wonderful and satisfying work, friendships, and experiences. OCF would not exist and the interaction with the thousands of patients, caregivers, doctors, and family members I have had would not have been part of my life. Are things perfect? No, but given the alternative I'm very pleased with my outcome even with the continued degeneration of nerve bundles and the negative possibilities that the future holds. It also holds wonderful positives as well, something I know Mark fully appreciates having spent time with him.

Brian, stage 4 oral cancer survivor. OCF Founder and Director. The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant.