What is Radiation Therapy ?
Radiation Therapy (also called radiotherapy) is a common and effective treatment for various types of cancer. It uses high-energy radiation to kill or damage cancer cells. However, like any medical treatment, it comes with potential risks and side effects.
At high doses, radiation therapy effectively destroys cancer cells or hinders their growth by inflicting significant damage to their DNA. When the DNA damage is irreparable, the cancer cells lose their ability to divide and eventually die. Once these damaged cells are eliminated, the body naturally breaks them down and disposes of them.
Types of Radiation Therapy
There are two main types of radiation therapy:
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1.External beam radiation therapy:
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) is a widely used method for treating cancer, where radiation is delivered from outside the body to target the tumor with precision. The treatment is administered by a machine called a linear accelerator, which generates high-energy radiation beams. The primary goal of EBRT is to destroy cancer cells or inhibit their growth while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible.
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2. Internal radiation therapy:
Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy) is a specialized form of radiotherapy where radioactive materials are placed directly within or adjacent to the tumor. This technique allows for the precise delivery of high radiation doses to the cancerous area, while sparing nearby healthy tissues. Brachytherapy is particularly effective for treating localized cancers such as those of the prostate, cervix, and breast.
Is Radiation Therapy Safe ?
Radiation therapy is generally safe and effective cancer treatment, thanks to advanced techniques that precisely target tumors and protect healthy tissues. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation and fatigue, which are usually manageable. Although there are rare risks of long-term effects, such as secondary cancers, these are closely monitored by healthcare professionals.
Types of cancer that are treated with radiation therapy:
Radiation therapy is used to treat a wide range of cancers, either alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy. Here are some of the key types of cancer that are commonly treated with radiation therapy:
- 1. Breast Cancer
- 2. Lung Cancer
- 3. Prostate Cancer
- 4. Colorectal Cancer
- 5. Cervical Cancer
- 6. Head and Neck Cancers
- 7. Skin Cancer
- 8. Gastrointestinal Cancers
Why people with cancer receive Radiation Therapy ?
Radiation therapy is used to treat cancer and ease cancer symptoms.
People with cancer receive radiation therapy for several reasons, depending on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the overall treatment plan.
Radiation therapy is a versatile and effective tool in cancer treatment, tailored to the specific needs of each patient to maximize the benefits while minimizing side effects.
Overall, while radiation therapy carries some risks, the benefits often outweigh these risks, especially when it comes to treating cancer effectively. The safety of radiation therapy continues to improve with advancements in technology and treatment techniques, and healthcare providers work diligently to manage and minimize any potential side effects.