Exploring the benefits of radiation therapy

by Dr Kampra Gupta, Consultant radiation oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Jaipur

Significant innovations have been achieved in modern times in comprehending the original factors that lead to cancer growth and its treatment. Despite this, the increasing number of malignancy cases poses an extensive challenge for medicinal specialists in the 21st century. The therapy arsenal against cancer involves radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and hormonal therapy. Radiation therapy is a crucial aspect of cancers treatment, as approximately 60% of cancer patients undergo it at some point during the course of the disease. It accounts for 40% of successful cancer treatments. The primary objective of radiation therapy is to hinder the ability of cancer cells to divide and replicate.

Radiation therapy refers to high-energy waves like X-rays, gamma rays, or protons. These beams, aimed at cancerous tissue, damage the DNA within, eventually leading to cell death and deterring tumor growth. Radiation therapy can be delivered externally, where an instrument directs the beams towards the targeted area, or internally, by implanting radioactive sources near the malignant tumor.

Treatment Applications: Radiation therapy holds substantial value in healing various cancers, including:

Brain: A reliable method for combating cancerous tumors and managing conditions like arteriovenous malformations with care.
Breast: Often utilized alongside surgery or chemotherapy in the early stages of breast cancer or as a preventative measure against recurrence.
Lung: Can provide a potential cure for early-stage lung cancer or help manage symptoms in advanced cases.
Prostate: An established approach for treating prostate cancer, often effective in early stages or when combined with other treatments for advanced cases..
 

The Radiation Therapy Procedure: The radiation therapy procedure is a carefully planned process for successful treatment. Using advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRIs, medical professionals create thorough maps of the tumor and its neighboring anatomy. This crucial step allows for a tailored approach to treatment, maximizing tumour dose exposure while minimizing harm to healthy tissues.

External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): This conventional approach delivers radiation from the external body using a linear accelerator (linac) machine.
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): IMRT takes precision to the next level by adjusting the strength of radiation rays to conform to the shape of the tumor, sparing nearby healthy tissue from unnecessary exposure.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT): This highly precise technique delivers high doses of radiation in fewer sessions, often used for smaller tumors.
 

Beyond the Procedure and Common Side Effects:

Food and Activity: While specific dietary restrictions are uncommon, maintaining a healthy diet is crucial during and after treatment. Consult your doctor for personalized advice. Light exercise is generally encouraged, but strenuous activities near the treatment area may need to be avoided.

While radiation therapy offers immense benefits, it's crucial to understand its potential side effects. These can vary depending on the treated area and the radiation dose, and may include:

Fatigue: It is not uncommon to experience fatigue as a side effect; however it can be managed with rest and proper care.
Skin reactions: Redness, dryness, or irritation may occur in the treated area. It is important to engage in gentle skincare practices to alleviate these symptoms.
Hair loss: Temporary hair loss is a possible side effect in the treated area, but hair typically grows back once treatment is completed.
Nausea and vomiting: Medications and dietary adjustments can help manage these side effects.
Other specific side effects: Depending on the treated area, additional side effects like mouth sores, difficulty swallowing, or sexual dysfunction may occur. It is important to communicate any concerning symptoms to your doctor.
 

Advancements in Radiation Therapy: Advancements in medical science are continuously pushing the boundaries of radiation therapy, revolutionizing its effectiveness, and minimizing its invasiveness. Among the most promising developments are:

Proton Therapy: This technology uses protons instead of X-rays to deliver radiation with unparalleled precision, potentially decreasing adverse effects.
Nanoparticles: Tiny particles injected into the tumor can deliver targeted radiation therapy, potentially enhancing the treatment's effectiveness.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Cutting-edge technology utilizes AI to analyze patient data and personalize radiation therapy plans, maximizing the treatment's efficacy.
 

The relentless pursuit of advancements in medical science has reshaped the landscape of Radiation Therapy. We find ourselves on the cusp of a future where cancer treatments are not only effective but also tailored to the individual needs of patients. As research continues to unravel the complexities of cancer, the promise of better, more targeted therapies fueled by cutting-edge technologies gives rise to a renewed sense of optimism for patients and healthcare professionals alike.