Radiotherapy in the treatment of cancer

Radiotherapy in the treatment of cancer

Radiotherapy or radiation therapy is a widely used treatment method for cancer treatment. Doctors recommend this therapy based on the type of cancer. It kills cancer cells. It is seen that 60 to 70 percent of cancer patients require radiotherapy at some point.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to damage the DNA of cancer cells and impair their ability to divide and grow. This therapy is given using a modern device called a linear accelerator. X-rays can kill cancer cells and shrink tumors due to high energy emissions.

Misconceptions about radiotherapy in cancer treatment

There are many misconceptions and fears about radiation therapy among patients. But this therapy does not cause any pain in the patient's body. It can be said, much like an X-ray. Its duration is determined depending on the condition of the patient. In many cases, this therapy causes damage to healthy cells, but it is not permanent. This therapy is applied by targeting only the necessary points. Also, non-cancerous cells can recover from radiation therapy.

Side effects of radiotherapy in cancer treatment

Some side effects like weight loss, dry mouth, and loss of appetite may occur. In this case, the doctor gives the necessary advice and after discussing it with the nutritionist, prepares a food list and has to follow it.

Radiotherapy phase in cancer treatment

Radiotherapy can be used at different stages. For example, to reduce the symptoms of late-stage cancer, as the main treatment for cancer, to reduce the size of a tumor before surgery, and to eliminate residual cancer cells after surgery. Radiotherapy is given to different parts of the body to treat different types of cancer. The main treatment for mouth and throat cancer is radiotherapy. Breast cancer also requires radiation.

Initially, it was treated with deep X-ray therapy. Now modern linear accelerator-based treatment is completely different. Tumor treatment in this new method is done as follows; Also protects normal cells.

After radiation therapy, the skin looked like it was burned. However, new technology provides therapy without damaging the skin. Many hospitals and clinics in the country have advanced technology devices. However, the therapy should be given by experienced radiation oncologists.