Glossary Terms
Radiation Oncologist
A physician who treats cancer using radiation.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill or shrink cancer cells. External radiation is the use of a machine to aim high-energy rays at the cancer from outside the body. Internal radiation therapy is the placement of a radioactive substance, such as cesium, iridium, or iodine, inside the body as close as possible to the cancer.
Radical cystectomy
A radical cystectomy is a surgery to remove the bladder or nearby tissues and organs (such as the prostate gland, seminal vesicles and part or all of the urinary tube).
Radical hysterectomy
A radical hysterectomy is a surgery sometimes used to treat cervical cancer. It removes the cervix, the uterus and part of the vagina. A radical hysterectomy sometimes involves removing nearby lymph nodes, ovaries or the fallopian tubes.
Radical prostatectomy
A radical prostatectomy is a surgery to treat prostate cancer by removing the prostate gland and the two small glands behind it called the seminal vesicles. These three glands produce the liquid that makes up a man's semen.
Reasonable Accommodation
A reasonable accommodation is a change to allow an individual to perform the essential functions of his or her job and enjoy equal benefits and privileges that an employer provides. Changes may include modifying work schedules, installing new work equipment, and restructuring job responsibilities.
Rectal
Refers to the rectum.
Rectum
The lower part of the large intestine where feces are stored.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is arthritis of the joints and other organs. It is usually inflammatory and causes pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Risk factor
Something that increases an individual's chance of developing a certain disease or condition.
