Background: Cancer affects everyone and represents a tremendous burden on patients, families and societies. The principal means for treating cancer (surgery, Chemotherapy and radiation therapy) are very effective; however, all such therapies come with the risk of substantial side effects. Aims and Objectives: The present descriptive study was conducted to assess for side effects experienced and the coping strategies adopted among 50 cancer patients receiving Radiation therapy treatment at Pravara Rural Hospital. The data were collected by using the self prepared; and validated rating scales. The results were analyzed and interpreted using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Result revealed that patients receiving Radiation therapy had variety of side effects with wide range; and patients followed many things to make the side effects more acceptable and easier to adopt with. There was Significant association was found between the side effects and type of cancer; coping strategies with sex and type of cancer (Pd” 0.05 level). There was significant positive relationship were found between side effects and coping strategies. Conclusion: It is essential to raise awareness on cancer treatment and its impact on health; and develop health seeking behaviors among the patients and caregivers to provide better cancer care and improve the quality of life.

Keywords: Side effects; Coping strategies.