During radiation therapy, high-energy radiation is used to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors by damaging their DNA structure either directly or by creating charged particles inside the cell that damage the DNA. This radiation can be administered by a machine outside the body, or by a radioactive substance released into the body targeting cancerous cells.

Dr. Louis Novak, director of the Radiation Oncology department, and Dr. Fredrick Barton provide Lake Health/University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center’s fantastic services to include state-of-the-art image-guided Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy technology. Our medical and technological experts include an amazing staff of radiation therapists, nurse dosimetrists, physicists, dietitians, social workers, and research associates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do patients get radiology exams and lab work done?
Most of our patients get their lab work and radiology exams at the Lake Health Mentor Medical Campus, where the LH/UH Seidman Cancer Center is located. Being located next to the campus makes it extremely convenient for our patients to have a “one stop shopping” diagnostic experience; they no longer need to go to multiple facilities to get their scans, x-rays and lab work done.
Will I be radioactive if I get radiation treatment?
No. During radiation treatment, the radiation is delivered in such small amounts over the full course of your treatment that it will not make you radioactive.
If I take antioxidants, will it improve the effect of radiation?
We advise against taking any vitamin or dietary supplements during the course of your treatment except for the standard daily vitamin doses, regular prescription meds, and nutritional support as needed. All medications and supplements should be reviewed with your doctor before treatment begins.
May I perm or color my hair while I am going through radiation treatment?
Yes, unless:

  • You are receiving chemotherapy treatment, or
  • You are receiving radiation to the brain or scalp
Should I avoid being near children or babies while I am receiving radiation?
No.
Is radiation bad for me?
Radiation is delivered by a Radiation Oncologist in a controlled environment and is an acceptable form of radiation treatment.
How many visitors may I bring to be with me while I'm receiving treatment?
We want you to feel comfortable during every visit. Please feel free to bring a maximum of 2 visitors along with you while you are receiving treatment. We limit visitors due to space restrictions, to control noise and to ensure safe, quality patient care. Here at LH/UH Seidman Cancer Center we do not allow children 12 years of age or under into the infusion area.
May I use my cell phone or laptop while I am receiving treatment?
Please do not use your cell phone while in the treatment area; scientific studies have shown that certain kinds of cellphones can interfere with our treatment equipment. If you need to use your cellphone, please step outside of our treatment area.

We do not mind if you wish to use your laptop while receiving treatment, as long as you please either lower or silence the volume so as not to disturb other patients. Note that the Lake Health Mentor campus offers free Wi-Fi.

Where do I go if I am a patient of LH/UH Seidman Cancer Center and I get admitted to the hospital?
If the need to go to the hospital should arise, most patients go to Lake Health facilities; however, the selection is ultimately up to the patient. Lake Health/University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center is a collaboration of two health care systems that have been brought together to care for and treat cancer patients in the community, close to home.
What are your hours of operation?
LH/UH Seidman Cancer Center is currently open Monday-Friday from 7:30am - 4:30pm. Click here to see our current lab hours; any lab appointments may be scheduled during these open hours.
Is there someone I can call outside of your normal hours?
Callers should contact the main number (440-205-5755). LH/UH Seidman Cancer Center currently has an answering service that will take calls after hours and on weekends.