Radiation Therapy

Abstract

Radiation therapy uses beams of intense energy to kill cancer cells. Usually, X-rays are used, but protons and other forms of energy are also effective. External beam radiation therapy is the most common type. By destroying the genetic material that controls cell growth and division, radiation therapy can damage tumor cells. However, normal cells are also damaged, so the goal of radiation therapy is to kill as many tumor cells as possible while minimizing damage to normal cells. It may take days to weeks for radiation therapy to begin destroying cancer cells. Over 50% of cancer patients receive radiation therapy as part of their treatment, and it is useful for nearly every type of cancer. With advances in three-dimensional technology, radiation therapy is able to be done with more precise accuracy than ever before, with finer tumor targeting and less danger of damage to surrounding tissues. Radiation therapy can be the primary treatment, or it can be used before or after surgery, and along with chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Adverse effects of radiation therapy depend on the part of the body being exposed and the amount of radiation used. Examples of adverse effects of radiation include hair loss, skin irritation, and fatigue.