Understanding Radiation Oncology: A Q&A With Dr. David Wallington

Radiation therapy is one of the most common treatments for cancer, yet it’s often misunderstood. In a recent interview, Dr. David Wallington, a radiation oncologist at Bronson Cancer Center in Battle Creek, answered common questions about how radiation oncology works, why it remains so important today, and what patients can expect when receiving care.

Below, he shares insights into the science, technology, and compassion behind modern radiation treatment.

Q: What is radiation oncology?

Radiation oncology is a medical specialty that focuses on treating cancer—and in some cases, benign conditions—using radiation therapy. It’s actually one of the oldest forms of cancer treatment. X‑rays were discovered in 1895, and they began using them to treat cancer by 1896.

What surprises many people is how common radiation therapy is today. About 60 percent of cancer patients will receive radiation at some point during their cancer journey. It plays a critical role in curing cancer, preventing it from returning, or helping relieve symptoms.

Q: How would you explain radiation treatment to someone hearing about it for the first time?

Radiation therapy works by sending small packets of energy into the body that damage the DNA of cancer cells. When cancer cells can’t repair that DNA damage, they die.

Most radiation treatments are delivered from outside the body and are noninvasive and painless during the treatment itself. Because healthy cells are often located close to tumors, some may be affected as well—and that’s where side effects can occur. A major focus of modern radiation oncology is limiting that impact as much as possible.

Q: Radiation is one of the oldest cancer treatments. Why is it still relevant today?

Even though radiation therapy has been used for more than a century, it remains one of the most effective ways to treat cancer. What has changed dramatically is the technology.

Today’s equipment allows us to be far more precise. Newer systems improve accuracy and reduce exposure to surrounding healthy tissue, which leads to fewer side effects and better outcomes. The core principle is the same, but our ability to deliver treatment safely has advanced tremendously.

Q: How do you determine the right type of radiation therapy for each patient?

Radiation treatment is never one‑size‑fits‑all. We take time to understand each patient—their diagnosis, overall health and personal priorities.

Treatment planning considers the type of cancer, the size and location of the tumor, and how radiation might affect nearby organs. It’s a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary process involving radiation oncologists, surgeons, medical oncologists, dosimetrists, therapists, nurses, and other specialists. Every person plays a role in creating the safest and most effective plan possible.

Q: What makes radiation oncology at Bronson stand out for patients?

Bronson offers comprehensive cancer care under one roof. As the largest medical center in Southwest Michigan, patients have access to nearly every specialist they might need without having to travel far from home.

We’re also proud of our advanced technology, including modern linear accelerators that allow us to accurately target tumors using multiple precisely shaped beams of radiation. These beams intersect at the tumor, maximizing impact on cancer cells while minimizing effects on healthy tissue.

Beyond technology, what truly sets Bronson apart is the people. Everyone on our team takes a genuine interest in every patient’s experience. We celebrate milestones, support patients through tough days, and never lose sight of the fact that our patients are our neighbors.

Facing cancer can be overwhelming, but radiation oncology remains a powerful and effective tool in treatment. With advanced technology, strong collaboration, and a commitment to treating every patient with compassion and respect, Dr. David Wallington and the team at Bronson are focused on delivering the highest level of care—close to home, when it matters most.

Learn more about cancer care at Bronson.