Radiation Therapy: A Cornerstone in Oncology Consultation and Cancer Treatment
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a vital component of modern oncology consultation and cancer treatment. This non-surgical approach utilizes high-energy beams or particles—such as X-rays, gamma rays, or protons—to destroy cancer cells, shrink tumors, and manage symptoms. It is a highly effective, localized treatment often used alone or in combination with other modalities like Chemotherapy, Targeted therapy, Immunotherapy for cancer, or Hormone therapy cancer.Dr. Saurabh Prasad: Adult & Pediatric Oncologist, Hemato-Oncologist & Bone Marrow Specialist in Nagpur
Dr. Saurabh Prasad is a highly regarded medical professional in Nagpur, specializing as an Adult & Pediatric Oncologist, Hemato-Oncologist, and Bone Marrow Specialist. With expertise covering a comprehensive range of cancer care, including the diagnosis and management of solid tumors and hematological malignancies, Dr. Prasad provides specialized care utilizing advanced treatment protocols such as Chemotherapy, Targeted therapy, Immunotherapy, and Hormone therapy cancer.How Radiation Therapy Works
The fundamental principle of radiation therapy lies in damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing, dividing, and multiplying. While the radiation can also affect nearby healthy cells, these normal cells generally have a greater capacity to repair the damage. The total dose of radiation is carefully planned and delivered over multiple sessions, allowing healthy tissue time to recover.Types of Radiation Therapy
The procedure varies based on the type of cancer, stage, and patient health:- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): A linear accelerator (LINAC) directs high-energy beams from outside the body onto the tumor. Techniques like IMRT and SBRT/SABR conform radiation precisely to the tumor’s shape, crucial for cancers like Lung cancer treatment, Prostate cancer treatment, Head and neck cancer treatment, Liver cancer treatment, and Pancreatic cancer treatment.
- Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): A sealed radioactive source is placed directly into or near the tumor, allowing a high dose to a small area. Often used for Cervical cancer treatment and Prostate cancer treatment.
- Systemic Radiation Therapy: Radioactive drugs (radiopharmaceuticals) are given orally or intravenously. They target cancer cells in the blood or specific organs, e.g., thyroid cancer.
Symptoms and Causes Related to Cancer
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
- Persistent pain, e.g., bone pain from metastases.
- Abnormal bleeding or changes in bowel/bladder habits (Colon cancer, Cervical cancer).
- Persistent cough or shortness of breath (Lung cancer).
Potential Side Effects
Side effects are generally localized and manageable:- General: Fatigue, skin changes (redness, dryness) at treatment site.
- Site-Specific: Mouth/throat cancers may cause dry mouth or difficulty swallowing; Prostate cancer or Cervical cancer treatment can lead to urinary or bowel issues; Lung cancer treatment might cause cough or shortness of breath.
- Long-Term Concerns: Fertility issues, second cancers (rare), tissue fibrosis.
FAQ’s on Radiation Therapy
- Q: Is radiation therapy painful?
A: No, treatment session itself is painless. Any discomfort relates to side effects that develop over time. - Q: How is the radiation dose determined?
A: A team including a Radiation oncologist and medical physicists uses imaging scans (CT, MRI) to map the tumor and surrounding organs, calculating precise dose and beam angles. - Q: Can I receive chemotherapy and radiation simultaneously?
A: Yes, this Chemoradiation therapy is often used (e.g., Cervical cancer, Head and neck cancer), as chemotherapy sensitizes cancer cells to radiation. - Q: Does radiation therapy make me radioactive?
A: No, External Beam Radiation Therapy does not. Some internal/systemic forms require short-term precautions as directed by the care team.
