DEAR ABBY: Twenty-eight years ago, my husband was diagnosed with cancer and treated with cobalt radiation. He was cured. Two years ago, he was diagnosed with cancer again. His doctors agreed it was a radiation-induced cancer.
There were no symptoms other than "indigestion," for which our family doctor prescribed antacids. All the while, the cancer was getting larger. My beloved husband died three months ago.
If we had only been warned of the risks of radiation therapy in later years, we would have insisted on yearly screenings.
Abby, please urge your readers to see their doctor if they received radiation treatment years ago. It could save their lives. -- CHARLIE'S WIFE
DEAR CHARLIE'S WIFE: Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your husband.
I am printing your letter with this advice: People who have ever had cancer should have routine checkups for the rest of their lives.