How Radiation Therapy Is Used to Treat Early Stage Cancer?

Cancer is a disease that occurs when abnormal cells in the body begin to grow and divide out of control. It can develop in almost any type of cell in the body and can be very aggressive. Early detection and treatment of cancer is important as it can often be cured if caught in its early stages. 

There are different types of cancer and each type can have different symptoms. Some common symptoms of cancer include fatigue, weight loss, and changes in appetite. There are treatments for cancer, among which radiation therapy is the most common to treat the early stage of the disease by using high beams of rays to kill cancer cells. A radiation therapist is a primary doctor who performs radiation therapy. 

To understand better, let’s look at how radiation therapy is used to treat the early stages of cancer.

What Does Early Stage of Cancer Refer To?

Cancer is characterised by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. These abnormal cells can grow and spread to other tissues and organs, which can eventually lead to death. 

The early stage of cancer refers to the phase when abnormal cells begin to grow and multiply. This stage can be difficult to detect as there may not be any symptoms. However, some early signs of cancer may include changes in appetite, weight loss, fatigue, and changes in the appearance of the skin. If cancer is suspected, the doctor will perform a physical examination and order tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Who Receives Radiation Therapy?

Patients with early-stage symptoms receive radiation therapy, which is usually given as short, daily treatments for several weeks. Cancer patients who receive this treatment often have a team of healthcare professionals working with them, including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapists. The treatment plan is tailored to each individual taking into account the type and stage of cancer as well as the person’s overall health and treatment goals.

Types of Radiation Therapy

There are two main types of radiation therapy:

• External beam radiation therapy 
• Internal beam radiation therapy

External beam radiation therapy uses a machine to direct the radiation beams at the cancerous area from outside the body. Internal beam radiation therapy, also known as brachytherapy, involves placing a radioactive device inside the body near the cancerous area.

Both types of radiation therapy can be effective in treating early-stage cancer. The treatment that is best for a particular patient depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, overall health, and the preferences of the patient and doctor.

How Effective Is Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy is effective in killing cancer cells. However, it can also damage healthy cells, which can lead to side effects. The side effects can include fatigue, skin reactions, and nausea. 

Overall, radiation therapy is an effective cancer treatment. However, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits before starting this treatment.

Goals of Radiation Therapy 

The goal of radiation therapy is to:

• Protect Healthy Cells

When a person is diagnosed with cancer, it is more likely that cancer can spread to other parts of the body damaging healthy cells. Radiation therapy prevents the transfer of cancerous cells to other parts of the body, which can help to keep cancer from spreading.

• Treat Recurring Cancer

Radiation therapy is used to treat recurring cancer by targeting the cancer cells with high-energy waves or particles. This therapy can be very effective in destroying cancer cells while sparing normal cells. 

• Treat Cancer Symptoms

Radiation therapy is used to treat cancer symptoms by destroying cancer cells and stopping their growth.

How Radiation Therapy Works?

Radiation therapy can be used to treat many types of cancer, including brain cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer. It is usually given by a machine called a linear accelerator, which delivers the radiation. The machine aims the radiation at the cancer cells and controls the amount of radiation that is delivered. 

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, you will have many questions. One of the most common questions is – what is the best treatment option? Well, we hope the question is answered and now you know that early detection and treatment are the keys to being cancer-free. Often, cancer specialists at any hospital would recommend you radiation therapy; however, with the above information, you can have peace of mind that your loved one is receiving the best treatment.