When to Use Hormone Therapy with Radiation Therapy

Bill McLaughlin, MD, is a Professor of Radiation Oncology at University of Michigan Medicine. He is the Medical Director of Community Practices at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan, and the Assarian Cancer Center in Novi, Michigan. Dr. McLaughlin is a board-certified radiation oncologist with a special interest in prostate cancer. Dr. McLaughlin is a member of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) and the American Brachytherapy Society (ABS). Dr. McLaughlin pioneered MRI-based treatment planning for prostate implants and external beam therapy. Incorporating MRI imaging led to the development of vessel-sparing radiation analogous to nerve-sparing prostatectomy. MRI-based evaluation post implant has improved the accuracy of implant checking and improved the quality of prostate implants. These techniques have vastly improved the quality of life for men with prostate cancer. The results of this research were published in the International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology, and Physics. Dr. McLaughlin participated in the design of the Assarian Cancer Center, which features an integrated healing arts center and a program to improve patient and family support at all stages of the cancer experience.