What is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Unlike chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill cancer cells, radiation therapy targets specific areas of the body. It can be delivered externally via external beam radiation or internally through brachytherapy.
How Does Radiation Therapy Work?
Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA inside cancer cells. This damage prevents the cells from dividing and growing, eventually leading to cell death. The treatment is precisely targeted to minimize harm to surrounding healthy tissues.
Types of Radiation Therapy
There are several types of radiation therapy, each with unique applications:1. External Beam Radiation: This is the most common form, delivering radiation from a machine outside the body.
2. Brachytherapy: Involves placing radioactive sources inside or near the tumor.
3. Systemic Radiation Therapy: Uses radioactive substances, such as radioactive iodine, that travel in the blood to kill cancer cells.
- Breast Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Lung Cancer
- Head and Neck Cancers
- Colorectal Cancer
- Skin Cancer
1. Consultation and Planning: Initial consultation with an oncologist, followed by imaging scans to map the treatment area.
2. Simulation: A planning session to determine the exact position and angles for radiation delivery.
3. Treatment Sessions: The actual delivery of radiation, which can span several weeks depending on the type and stage of cancer.
- Fatigue
- Skin Changes: Redness, blistering, or peeling
- Hair Loss: In the treated area
- Nausea and Vomiting: Particularly if the abdomen is treated
- Mouth and Throat Problems: If the head or neck is treated
How Effective is Radiation Therapy?
The effectiveness of radiation therapy varies depending on the type and stage of cancer. For many cancers, it is an effective treatment that can lead to remission. It is often used in combination with other treatments like surgery and chemotherapy to improve outcomes.
What are the Advancements in Radiation Therapy?
Recent advancements have made radiation therapy more precise and effective. Techniques like
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and
Proton Therapy allow for more targeted treatment, reducing damage to surrounding tissues.
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) uses imaging during treatment to improve accuracy.
What Should Patients Expect During Radiation Therapy?
Patients undergoing radiation therapy should expect a series of sessions, typically lasting 15-30 minutes each. The treatment itself is painless, but side effects can accumulate over time. Patients will have regular follow-up appointments to monitor their response to treatment and manage any side effects.
Conclusion
Radiation therapy is a cornerstone of cancer treatment, offering a targeted approach to kill cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. With continuous advancements in technology, it remains an essential tool in the fight against cancer, improving the lives of countless patients.
