Radiation therapy is one of the key methods for treating cancer. Its essence lies in directing a beam of ionizing radiation at the tumor, which destroys the DNA of cancer cells. As a result, these cells stop dividing or die completely.
What Types of Radiation Therapy Are There?
Not all radiation therapy techniques are the same. Here are the main types:
- External Beam Radiation Therapy: The radiation source is located outside the body. This is the most common method.
- Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation): Radioactive sources are placed directly in or near the tumor.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery: High-precision radiation without a scalpel, such as the “Gamma Knife” for brain tumors.
- Radionuclide Therapy: Drugs are administered intravenously, accumulating in the tumor and destroying it from within.
When is Radiation Therapy Prescribed?
Indications for radiation therapy depend on the type of tumor, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s overall condition. Here are the main scenarios:
- Treatment of Localized Tumors: When the cancer hasn’t spread, but surgery is not possible or desired.
- Preparation for Surgery (Neoadjuvant Therapy): To shrink the tumor before removal.
- Post-Surgery (Adjuvant Therapy): To eliminate remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Palliative Care: In advanced cases to relieve pain, pressure on organs, or bleeding.
- Tumor Recurrence: If the cancer returns after treatment.
The decision is made by an oncology team—a group of specialists who develop a personalized treatment plan.
Common Cancers Treated with Radiation Therapy
Not all tumors respond equally to radiation. Some are particularly sensitive. Examples include:
- Breast Cancer: Often used after surgery to prevent recurrence.
- Cervical Cancer: Combined treatment with chemotherapy and brachytherapy.
- Prostate Cancer: Brachytherapy or external radiation as an alternative to surgery.
- Brain Tumors: Stereotactic radiosurgery allows precise targeting of hard-to-reach areas.
- Skin Cancer (Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma): Superficial radiation instead of surgical removal.
- Lung Cancer (Non-Small Cell): In combination with other methods.
There are other indications, and the list is expanding due to new technologies.
How Does a Course of Radiation Therapy Work?
The course varies by case but typically follows this pattern:
- Examination and Planning: CT or MRI to precisely locate the tumor.
- Marking the Radiation Zone: The doctor places small marks on the skin as guides for accuracy.
- Therapy Sessions: Conducted daily, 5 days a week, for several weeks.
- Monitoring and Adjustments: Radiation parameters are modified as needed.
The procedure itself is painless and takes only a few minutes.
Side Effects: What to Expect?
Radiation therapy, like any treatment, has side effects. These depend on the irradiated area and dosage. The most common include:
- Fatigue: A feeling of exhaustion that may persist for weeks after treatment ends.
- Skin Damage: Redness, dryness, or peeling in the irradiated area.
- Mucous Membrane Damage: Dry mouth or pain when swallowing if the head or neck is treated.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea or diarrhea with abdominal radiation.
- Anemia and Weakened Immunity: Possible with bone marrow irradiation.
These symptoms are manageable and usually subside over time after the course ends.
Myths About Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is surrounded by fear and misconceptions. Let’s address the most common ones:
- “I’ll be contagious after radiation therapy”: No, modern methods don’t make you radioactive.
- “It always causes severe nausea”: Only if the stomach area is irradiated, and even then, effective medications are available.
- “Radiation therapy is only for terminal stages”: No, it’s actively used in early stages too.
- “I’ll lose my hair”: Only in the irradiated area, such as the head. Hair elsewhere remains unaffected.
- “Radiation therapy is always harmful”: Yes, there are risks of side effects, but the benefits usually far outweigh them.
When to Avoid Radiation Therapy?
In some cases, this method is contraindicated. The main reasons are:
- Poor General Condition: Severe weakness or malnutrition.
- Severe Organ Damage: To the liver, kidneys, or heart.
- Previous Radiation in the Same Area: If the area has already been irradiated.
- Severe Infections: Treatment starts only after they’re resolved.
- Pregnancy: Especially in the first trimester, due to the risk of fetal harm.
The decision is always individualized, considering all factors.
Future Developments in Radiation Therapy
Science is advancing, and modern technologies are making treatments more precise and safer:
- Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): Adjusts beam intensity to minimize damage to healthy tissues.
- Proton Therapy: Uses a proton beam that stops precisely at the tumor, sparing nearby organs.
- 4D Planning: Accounts for organ movement during breathing, crucial for lung or liver treatment.
- Integration with Immunotherapy: Combining radiation with immune-activating drugs enhances anti-tumor effects.
These methods are already available in some clinics and are continually improving.
Conclusion: Radiation Therapy is a Vital Tool Against Cancer
Radiation therapy is not just “radiation” but a high-tech, carefully planned treatment method that saves thousands of lives. It can be used as a standalone approach or part of a combined therapy. The key is to trust experienced specialists, follow recommendations, and not be afraid to ask questions. Modern oncology aims not only to extend life but also to make it more comfortable.