Radiation Oncology Therapy: How Radiation Therapy Is Used for Cancer Treatment

What is Radiation Oncology Therapy?

Radiation therapy, commonly known as radiotherapy, irradiation, or x-ray therapy, is a medical procedure used to treat patients suffering from cancer. Cancer is a progressive disease that is marked by the abnormal growth and accumulation of malignant cells in a particular organ of the body that gradually replaces all the healthy cells leading to severe organ damage. The problem can affect people of any age group and may be inherited or acquired later in life. Radiation therapy targets cancer cells and destroys them. They not only kill the existing cells but also prevent new cells from growing. Radiation therapy is offered at all the leading Oncology Treatment Hospitals In Mumbai.

Also Read About Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer

Types of Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is categorized based on the method of delivering radiation:

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

​External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) method uses specialized equipment to direct high-energy rays to the tumor from outside the body. It is the most common approach and is particularly effective for localized cancers.

Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy)

​Radioactive materials are placed inside the body near the cancer site. This technique allows for targeted treatment with minimal exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

Combination Therapy

​In some cases, both methods are used to ensure comprehensive treatment.

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Importance of Radiation Oncology Therapy

Radiation oncology is also important in treating recurrent and remaining cancer cells. This treatment option is used to shrink tumors in early-stage cancer. Oncologists can combine radiation therapy and surgery to cure early-stage cancer when the disease is diagnosed early. It minimizes the chances of recurrence since radiation is exhaustive in killing cancer cells. Additionally, radiation therapy helps relieve symptoms of patients with advanced cancer in palliative care.

Why Choose Radiation Therapy?

According to leading Radiation Oncology Specialists in Mumbai, this therapy is an integral part of modern cancer care due to its precision and effectiveness. Advanced radiation oncology systems ensure minimal damage to healthy tissues, enhancing the overall treatment experience. Hence it is very important to make sure that the radiations are given in the right amount.

Oncology Doctors in Mumbai, Maharashtra specialise in both internal as well as external therapy. Kids have to go for regular therapies 4 to 5 days a week for several weeks or even months and are usually given very small doses to ensure minimal damage to normal cells. While the therapy is being given, the parents are not allowed to accompany their child. However, after the therapy, you can touch and hug your child.

As such there are no restrictions on contact with family for children undergoing external radiation therapy. However, kids undergoing internal radiation therapy may be subjected to some restrictions. Then internal therapy involves the placement of radioactive material inside the patient's body, the child continues to emit harmful radiation for some time. Exposure to these radiations can have a drastic impact on the parent's health. As such it is important to keep the child isolated for some time. Nanavati Max Hospital staff can visit the child for brief intervals. Parents may be allowed to visit the child after some hours. They may be asked to wear a mask and a gown. Young kids, pregnant women, elderlies and people suffering from chronic diseases will not be allowed to go inside.

Side Effects of Radiation Therapy

While highly effective, radiation therapy can have side effects, including:

• Skin irritation and burns.

• Fatigue and anemia.

• Temporary damage to healthy tissues.

These side effects typically subside post-treatment, but some cases may require supportive care.

We recommend you discuss the whole procedure with a Radiation Oncologists In Mumbai in detail and learn about the various side effects. You may also take your child to the radiation department of the hospital and let him/her meet the technologists to become familiar with the equipment and staff. If your child asks you any questions about the treatment, be truthful. Don't hide anything from them. You can also take your child for counselling sessions. This can help to relieve their stress. It can be really hard for you at times but it is harder for your child. So make sure that you do not let your worries show in front of your child and offer them all the moral support that they need.

Caring for Children Undergoing Radiation Therapy

Children undergoing radiation therapy require special attention, as the process can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Parents should:

• Familiarize their child with the procedure by visiting the hospital’s radiation department.

• Be honest when answering questions about the treatment.

• Encourage counseling to reduce stress and anxiety.

• Follow hospital guidelines for safety, especially for internal therapy where isolation may be necessary.

The Future of Radiation Oncology Therapy

The future of radiation oncology lies in:

• Advancing technology to improve precision and reduce side effects.

• Early cancer detection and prevention.

• Public awareness of cancer risk factors to minimize cases.

As technology evolves, radiation therapy is expected to become less invasive and more efficient, offering better outcomes for patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is The Success Rate of Radiation Therapy for Cancer Treatment?

Radiation therapy has a high success rate, particularly for early-stage cancers when combined with other treatments.

2. Are There Alternatives to Radiation Therapy?

Yes, alternatives like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery may be considered based on the cancer type and stage.

3. Can Radiation Therapy Be Used Alongside Surgery?

Yes, it is often used before or after surgery to enhance treatment effectiveness and prevent recurrence.

4. Is Radiation Therapy Safe for Children?

Radiation therapy for children is carefully planned to minimize side effects and maximize safety.

5. How Long Does a Radiation Therapy Session Take?

Each session typically lasts 15-30 minutes, but the overall treatment duration may extend over weeks.