Join us for an in-depth conversation conducted by Sabrin Saba Hussain with Dr. Sneha Jha as she shares her expertise in radiation oncology. Gain valuable insights into the future of radiation therapy and patient care. Understand the impact of cutting-edge technologies on patient outcomes. Uncover the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in cancer care. Hear firsthand experiences and inspiring stories from Dr. Jha’s illustrious career.
Dr. Sneha Jha is the Chief Consultant in Radiation Oncology at Paras HMRI, Patna, bringing over 9 years of specialized experience in clinical radiation oncology, radiological physics, and radiobiology. Her practice focuses on comprehensive radiation treatment planning and implementation, emphasizing safety and efficacy in treatment. She is highly skilled in various advanced radiation techniques including 3DCRT, IMRT, IGRT, VMAT, SRT, SRS, SBRT, and Gating technologies. Dr. Jha is dedicated to the management of malignancies such as breast, genitourinary, and head and neck cancers, along with expertise in palliative care and pain management.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you became interested in the field of radiotherapy?
I finished my MBBS and was unaware about the fact that I will become an oncologist. During my college days, I was interested in doing cultural programs and fund-raising fashion shows for cancer patients and genuinely interested in how to ease their pain and suffering that is the most common symptom in my experience with cancer. My true inspiration was my mother, who taught me to be compassionate about patients.
What inspired you to pursue a career in medical radiation therapy?
My inspiration to pursue a career in medical radiation therapy stemmed from my love for physics and its application in Health science. As one of very few women in this field, I was drawn to the challenge of combining complex physical principles with cutting-edge technology to develop effective cancer treatments. The opportunity to break barriers and contribute to advancements in medical physics, while making a tangible difference in patients’ lives, has been a driving force behind my career choice.
You have been instrumental in commissioning several advanced radiotherapy techniques. Can you explain what stereotactic radiation with micro multi leaf collimation is and how it benefits patients?
Stereotactic radiation with micro multi leaf collimation (mMLC) is a highly precise form of radiotherapy that employs multiple narrow beams of radiation, converging on the tumor from various angles. The micro multi leaf collimator enhances this precision by allowing for the fine shaping of the radiation beams, conforming exactly to the tumor’s three-dimensional shape. This precision minimizes radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, thereby reducing side effects and allowing for higher radiation doses to be delivered to the tumor, enhancing treatment efficacy. This technique is particularly beneficial for treating small, well-defined tumors in critical areas such as the brain and spine.
How does whole body stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) differ from traditional radiotherapy methods?
Whole body stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) differs from traditional radiotherapy by delivering high doses of radiation in fewer sessions with pinpoint accuracy. This approach can effectively target tumors while reducing overall treatment time and minimizing side effects.
What are the key benefits of using VMAT (Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy) in radiotherapy?
VMAT (Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy) delivers radiation in a continuous arc around the patient, allowing for shorter treatment times, improved dose distribution, and better sparing of healthy tissues compared to conventional techniques.
What advancements do you foresee in radiotherapy that could further improve patient outcomes in the near future?
Future advancements in radiotherapy may include more precise imaging and targeting techniques, integration of artificial intelligence for personalized treatment plans, and development of new radiation delivery technologies that further minimize damage to healthy tissues while maximizing tumor control.
In your opinion, what is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is knowing that I play a crucial role in improving patients’ quality of life and survival rates through innovative and effective cancer treatments.
How do you stay updated with the latest advancements and research in radiotherapy?
I stay updated with the latest advancements and research in radiotherapy by regularly attending professional conferences, participating in continuing education programs, reading scientific journals, and collaborating with colleagues in the field.
What future developments in radiotherapy technology are you most excited about?
I am most excited about the potential of integrating artificial intelligence in treatment planning and delivery, which could lead to highly personalized and precise radiotherapy, as well as advancements in proton therapy and other particle therapies that promise improved outcomes with fewer side effects.
What advice would you give to aspiring radiotherapists or medical professionals interested in this field?
My advice to the aspiring radiation Oncologist, radiation Physicist and technician to this department is of precision and high dose radiation is getting handled so be cautious while setup and while planning as once the radiation is given can’t be reversed. Meticulous planning and execution of the treatment is crucial and real dedication is needed for this kind of treatment.
MedBound Times expresses sincere gratitude to Dr. Sneha Jha for sharing his valuable insights on our platform.