Radiotherapy
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Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, is a treatment that uses high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells. It is commonly used for treating various types of cancer, either as a primary treatment or in combination with other modalities such as surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
Radiotherapy works by damaging the DNA within the targeted cancer cells, preventing them from multiplying and growing. The treatment can be delivered in two primary forms: external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), where radiation is directed at the cancer from outside the body, and internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy), where radioactive sources are placed inside or very close to the tumor.
Radiotherapy is a versatile treatment used to cure cancer, shrink tumors before surgery, relieve symptoms of advanced cancer, and improve overall quality of life. The approach taken depends on the cancer's location, type, stage, and the patient's overall health.
This comprehensive guide will cover the causes and risk factors associated with radiotherapy, the symptoms and signs it addresses, diagnostic procedures, treatment options, management strategies, and the complications associated with radiotherapy. It will also discuss how to live with the condition while undergoing radiotherapy.
Radiotherapy itself is not a disease but a treatment method for cancer and other conditions that require targeted radiation. The causes of cancer—conditions treated with radiotherapy—are numerous and vary based on the cancer's location, stage, and the underlying factors that influence cancer development.
Cancer occurs when abnormal cells begin to divide uncontrollably. These tumor cells can invade nearby tissues and organs, causing further damage. Radiation therapy is most commonly used to treat cancer, which develops due to genetic mutations, environmental exposure, and lifestyle choices.
Radiotherapy is used to treat various types of cancers, including:
Radiotherapy is commonly used after breast cancer surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence by targeting remaining cancer cells.
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- ✅ Purchase medical tourism insurance before traveling
- ✅ Arrange follow-up care with a local doctor before traveling
⚠ Medical Disclaimer
SurgeryPlanet is a Healthcare Facilitator, NOT a Medical Service Provider. This page contains general information only. No outcome is guaranteed. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making treatment decisions.