What Is Radiation for Cancer Treatment?
Radiation for cancer treatment, also known as radiation therapy or radiotherapy, is a cancer treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It works by damaging the DNA inside cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing.
Understanding the Principles of Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy aims to deliver a precise dose of radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This is achieved through careful planning and the use of various techniques that focus the radiation beam. The effectiveness of radiation therapy depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health.
Radiation works because cancer cells are often less able to repair DNA damage than healthy cells. This differential sensitivity allows radiation to target and destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue to a large extent. However, some damage to healthy tissue is unavoidable, which leads to the side effects associated with radiation therapy.
Types of Radiation
There are two main types of radiation used in cancer treatment: external beam radiation and internal radiation (brachytherapy).
- External Beam Radiation: This type delivers radiation from a machine outside the body. The most common type of external beam radiation is called photon therapy, using X-rays or gamma rays. Other types include proton therapy and electron therapy.
- Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy): In brachytherapy, a radioactive source is placed inside the body, either directly into the tumor or near it. This allows for a high dose of radiation to be delivered directly to the cancer while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues.
How Radiation Kills Cancer Cells
Radiation damages the DNA of cancer cells, the molecule that carries genetic information and controls cell growth and division. When DNA is damaged, cancer cells lose their ability to grow and multiply. The damaged cells then die, and the body naturally eliminates them. While healthy cells can also be damaged by radiation, they are generally better at repairing themselves, allowing them to survive the treatment better than cancer cells.
FAQs About Radiation Therapy
Here are some frequently asked questions that address common concerns and misconceptions about radiation therapy:
FAQ 1: What types of cancer can be treated with radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy can be used to treat a wide variety of cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, brain tumors, head and neck cancers, cervical cancer, lymphoma, and sarcoma. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. The specific type of cancer and its stage will determine whether radiation therapy is an appropriate treatment option.
FAQ 2: How is radiation therapy planned and delivered?
The radiation therapy process begins with a consultation with a radiation oncologist, who will assess the patient’s medical history, examine the tumor, and determine whether radiation therapy is appropriate. If so, the patient will undergo a simulation, during which imaging scans (CT, MRI, PET) are used to create a detailed map of the tumor and surrounding tissues. This information is then used to develop a treatment plan that precisely targets the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.
For external beam radiation, the patient will typically lie on a table while a machine called a linear accelerator delivers radiation to the tumor. The treatment is usually given in small daily doses (fractions) over several weeks. For brachytherapy, the radioactive source is placed directly into or near the tumor, either temporarily or permanently.
FAQ 3: What are the common side effects of radiation therapy?
Side effects of radiation therapy vary depending on the location of the treatment, the dose of radiation, and the patient’s overall health. Common side effects include fatigue, skin irritation (like sunburn), hair loss in the treated area, nausea, diarrhea, and changes in blood counts. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve after treatment is completed. The radiation oncology team will provide guidance on managing side effects.
FAQ 4: How long does radiation therapy take?
The length of radiation therapy varies depending on the type and stage of cancer, the type of radiation used, and the individual patient’s response to treatment. External beam radiation is typically given in small daily doses (fractions) over several weeks, while brachytherapy may involve a single treatment or multiple treatments over a few days. The radiation oncologist will provide a personalized treatment schedule.
FAQ 5: Is radiation therapy painful?
Radiation therapy itself is not painful. Patients typically do not feel anything during the treatment. However, some patients may experience discomfort or pain from the side effects of radiation, such as skin irritation or mucositis (inflammation of the lining of the mouth and throat). Pain medication and other supportive care measures can help manage these side effects.
FAQ 6: What can I do to prepare for radiation therapy?
Before starting radiation therapy, it is important to discuss any concerns or questions with the radiation oncology team. Patients should inform their doctor about any medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet and get enough rest. Depending on the area being treated, specific preparations may be required, such as emptying the bladder before each treatment or avoiding certain skin products.
FAQ 7: Will I be radioactive after radiation therapy?
After external beam radiation therapy, patients are not radioactive and can safely be around other people, including children and pregnant women. After brachytherapy, the radioactive source is sometimes removed after a certain period. If a permanent implant is used, the patient will be radioactive for a short time, but the radiation emitted decreases over time. The radiation oncology team will provide specific instructions on how to protect others from radiation exposure.
FAQ 8: Can radiation therapy cause cancer?
While radiation therapy is used to treat cancer, it can also increase the risk of developing a secondary cancer later in life. This risk is relatively small and is outweighed by the benefits of treating the initial cancer. The radiation oncology team will carefully weigh the risks and benefits of radiation therapy before recommending it as a treatment option. Modern techniques are designed to minimize the dose to healthy tissue.
FAQ 9: What is the difference between radiation therapy and chemotherapy?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, while chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is typically targeted to a specific area of the body, while chemotherapy affects the entire body. Both treatments can cause side effects, but the specific side effects vary depending on the type of treatment and the individual patient. Chemotherapy is also referred to as systemic therapy.
FAQ 10: Can I continue working during radiation therapy?
Many patients are able to continue working during radiation therapy, although they may need to adjust their work schedule or workload. The ability to work depends on the type of cancer, the treatment schedule, and the patient’s overall health. Patients should discuss their work plans with their doctor and employer. Fatigue is a common side effect and may impact work performance.
FAQ 11: What happens after radiation therapy is completed?
After radiation therapy is completed, patients will typically have follow-up appointments with their radiation oncologist to monitor their response to treatment and manage any long-term side effects. Imaging scans may be used to assess the tumor’s response. The follow-up schedule will vary depending on the type of cancer and the individual patient’s needs. A rehabilitation plan may also be implemented to address any long-term effects of treatment.
FAQ 12: How do I find a qualified radiation oncologist?
To find a qualified radiation oncologist, ask your primary care physician or oncologist for a referral. You can also search online directories of radiation oncologists certified by the American Board of Radiology. When choosing a radiation oncologist, consider their experience, expertise, and communication skills. It is important to feel comfortable and confident with your radiation oncology team.