Radiation

Introduction to Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a type of treatment for cancerous tumors that uses high doses of radiation to destroy cancer cells and stop them from growing or spreading. X-rays, gamma rays, protons, electrons, or other high-energy waves or particles are often used in radiation therapy. Radiation treatments are very similar to getting an X-ray, but radiation is much stronger. The procedure is typically painless.

Radiation may help people reach remission either on its own or along with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy.

How Does Radiation Therapy Work?

Radiation therapy works by breaking a strand of the DNA within cancer cells to prevent them dividing and growing. Unlike chemotherapy, which is introduced to the entire body, radiation therapy is focused only on the area of the body being treated.

What Is the Difference Between External and Internal Beam Radiation?

Radiation therapy has two distinct types of treatment. One is external beam, which is when a machine outside the body aims radiation at cancer cells. The other is internal, when radiation is put inside the body within or near the cancer cells in the form of seeds or pellets .

Does Radiation Affect Healthy Cells?

While radiation therapy is destroying cancer cells in the body, it may affect healthy cells as well. Usually healthy cells recover once the treatment is over, but some people may experience side effects from the treatment. Learn more about side effects here.