Newswise — The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is pleased to announce it has published its first issue of Practical Radiation Oncology (PRO), a new medical journal whose mission is to improve the quality of radiation oncology practice. Published by leading scientific publisher Elsevier, the issue is both available in print and online at www.practicalradonc.org.

Under the guidance of Editor-in-Chief W. Robert Lee, M.D., M.S., M.Ed., a professor of radiation oncology and program director at Duke University in Durham, N.C., PRO is a natural complement to the Society's primary research journal, the International Journal of Radiation Oncology•Biology•Physics (also called the Red Journal), and aims to be what Medline defines as a clinical or practice journal. These types of journals have as their dominant purpose either documenting the state of current practice, providing background for those in training or the continuing education of practitioners.

“I am very pleased with our first issue and I am humbled so many of my colleagues have taken the time to submit important manuscripts as well as volunteer their time to become reviewers,” Dr. Lee said. “Highlights of the first issue include two articles on the importance of safety in radiation oncology, a timely and important topic for our specialty. We would all do well to read these articles, reflect on the content and consider improvements in our practices. Another must-read article in this issue is an excellent summary of radiation-induced optic neuropathy, an article I view as a model for future manuscripts.” PRO will initially be published quarterly in print and online and included in the membership dues for all Active, Allied and International members.

“Practical Radiation Oncology is a great journal with practical applications for the entire radiation oncology community,” Anthony L. Zietman, M.D., ASTRO chairman and a senior editor of PRO, said. “I have been impressed with the level of manuscripts we have received and the dedication of the other senior editors and reviewers to ensure balanced, timely reviews so that the best, most interesting and important papers will make it to the pages of PRO. I am confident this journal is on its way to becoming the go-to read for practical and relevant advice for everyone in radiation oncology practice.”

ASTRO is the largest radiation oncology society in the world, with more than 10,000 members who specialize in treating patients with radiation therapies. As the leading organization in radiation oncology, biology and physics, the Society is dedicated to improving patient care through education, clinical practice, advancement of science and advocacy. For more information on radiation therapy, visit www.rtanswers.org. To learn more about ASTRO, visit www.astro.org.

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