Radiation Therapy in Turkey
Discover Radiation Therapy in Turkey
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a type of cancer treatment that uses strong energy beams to destroy cancer cells. This therapy, often utilizing X-Rays or proton radiation, has advanced significantly in recent years, allowing for precise targeting of cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
How Radiation
Therapy Works?
Radiation therapy can be administered internally or externally. External beam radiation therapy is the most common approach, which involves directing high-energy beams from a machine called a linear accelerator to a specific point on the body. On the other hand, brachytherapy involves placing small solid implants near or inside the cancerous area.
The Radiation Therapy Machine
Linear accelerator generates high-energy beams that are precisely targeted at the cancerous area. The linear accelerator moves around the patient, delivering radiation from different angles to ensure accurate treatment. The machine is operated by a skilled radiation therapy team, who monitor the treatment process and make necessary adjustments to optimize its effectiveness.
What is the Goal of Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy works by damaging the genetic material of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. While healthy cells can also be affected, they have a better ability to repair themselves compared to cancer cells. The primary objective of radiation therapy is to treat the cancer while minimizing harm to healthy cells.
When is Radiation Therapy Used?
Radiation therapy is used to treat various types of cancer, making it a crucial component of cancer treatment for more than half of all cancer patients. It can be used as the primary treatment, before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells, in combination with chemotherapy, or to alleviate symptoms caused by advanced cancer.
Understanding Risks
and Side Effects
Radiation therapy, like any medical treatment, carries the risk of side effects. The occurrence of side effects during radiation therapy depends on the part of the body being treated and the dosage of radiation used. Common side effects include hair loss, skin irritation, fatigue, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, nausea, diarrhea, and more. Most side effects can be managed during treatment and typically subside afterward. In some cases, late side effects may develop, and there is a very small risk of a second primary cancer developing years after treatment.
Radiation Therapy vs. Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are both important treatment options for cancer, but they work in different ways. While radiation therapy uses energy beams to destroy cancer cells locally, chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to target cancer cells throughout the body. The choice between radiation therapy and chemotherapy depends on factors such as the type and stage of cancer, its location, and the patient’s overall health. Sometimes, these two treatments are used together to achieve the best results.
Success Rate of
Radiation Therapy
The success rate of radiation therapy varies depending on the type and stage of cancer, as well as individual factors. Radiation therapy has proven to be highly effective in treating many types of cancer, including prostate cancer and breast cancer. However, it’s essential to remember that each case is unique, and the success rate can vary from person to person. Your healthcare team can provide more specific information based on your situation.
Prostate Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a common treatment option for prostate cancer. It can be used as the primary treatment or in combination with other therapies. Prostate radiation therapy aims to target and destroy cancer cells in the prostate gland while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. The specific approach and duration of treatment will depend on the characteristics of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.
Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer
Radiation therapy is frequently employed in the treatment of breast cancer. It is typically used after surgery to remove the tumor, with the goal of eliminating any remaining cancer cells in the breast or nearby lymph nodes. Breast cancer radiation therapy is carefully planned to deliver precise doses of radiation to the affected area while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. The treatment duration and intensity may vary depending on individual factors.
