What is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a common method used to treat cancer. It involves the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy can be used as a primary treatment, together with other treatments such as surgery or chemotherapy, or it can be used to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life in advanced stages of cancer.
Types of Radiation Therapy
There are two main types of radiation therapy: external beam radiation therapy and internal radiation therapy. In external beam radiation therapy, a machine called a linear accelerator delivers radiation from outside the body directly to the tumor and surrounding areas. This can be done through different techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) or stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
Internal radiation therapy, also known as brachytherapy, involves the placement of radiation sources directly into or near the tumor. This can be done through the use of small seeds or capsules containing radioactive material. The sources are positioned either temporarily or permanently, depending on the type of cancer and treatment plan.
Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which impairs their ability to divide and grow. While normal cells can also be affected, they are able to repair themselves more effectively than cancer cells. This allows radiation therapy to selectively target cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Before starting radiation therapy, a patient undergoes a simulation process to determine the optimal treatment plan. This may include imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, to precisely locate the tumor and surrounding structures. Radiation oncologists work closely with medical physicists and dosimetrists to design a treatment plan that delivers the necessary dose to the tumor while sparing nearby healthy tissue as much as possible.
What to Expect During Radiation Therapy
During treatment, a patient typically undergoes multiple sessions, called fractions, spread out over several weeks. Each treatment session is quick and painless, lasting only a few minutes. Side effects can vary depending on the location and extent of treatment, but common side effects include fatigue, skin reactions, shortening or stenosis of the vagina, and temporary changes in bodily functions.
Radiation therapy has become an essential component of cancer treatment, and advances in technology and techniques have improved its precision and effectiveness. It is used to treat various types of cancers, including breast, lung, prostate, brain, and cervical cancer, among others. The goal of radiation therapy is to cure cancer, control its growth, or alleviate symptoms, depending on the specific situation of the patient.
If you experience any side effects or have any questions about radiation treatment, please contact your healthcare team.