Radiotherapy: A Vital Tool in Cancer Treatment

Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, is a common and highly effective treatment used to combat various types of cancer. By using high doses of radiation to kill or damage cancer cells, radiotherapy helps to control the growth of tumors and can be used in conjunction with other treatments such as surgery or chemotherapy. Understanding how radiotherapy works and its role in cancer treatment is essential for patients and caregivers.

How Radiotherapy Works

Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation, typically X-rays, to target cancer cells in specific areas of the body. The radiation damages the DNA within the cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. Over time, the cancer cells die, and the tumor shrinks. Radiotherapy can be delivered externally, where a machine directs radiation beams at the cancer, or internally, where radioactive materials are placed near or inside the tumor.

Benefits and Side Effects of Radiotherapy

The benefits of radiotherapy include its ability to precisely target cancer cells, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. This makes it a crucial option for treating tumors that are inoperable or located near vital organs. However, radiotherapy can also cause side effects, which vary depending on the area being treated. Common side effects include fatigue, skin irritation, and changes in the affected area. These side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with the help of healthcare professionals.

Different Types of Radiotherapy

There are several types of radiotherapy, each tailored to the patient's specific needs. External beam radiotherapy is the most common form, where radiation is delivered from outside the body. Another type, brachytherapy, involves placing radioactive sources inside the body, close to the tumor. Stereotactic radiotherapy, a more precise form, uses advanced imaging techniques to deliver high doses of radiation to small tumors with great accuracy, minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.