Radioteraapia

Radioterapia, also known as radiation therapy, is a type of medical treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is a common and effective treatment for many types of cancer, often used alone or in combination with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy. The radiation works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. While it targets cancer cells, some healthy cells can also be affected, leading to side effects.

There are two main types of radiation therapy: external beam radiation and internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy). External beam radiation involves a machine outside the body directing radiation beams at the tumor. Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive material directly inside or near the tumor. The specific type and dosage of radiation are determined by the type, size, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.

The decision to use radiotherapy is made by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including oncologists, radiation oncologists, and medical physicists. They carefully plan the treatment to maximize the destruction of cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Side effects can vary depending on the area treated and the dose of radiation, but common ones include fatigue, skin changes, and sometimes nausea or diarrhea. Many side effects are temporary and can be managed with supportive care. Radiotherapy has been a cornerstone of cancer treatment for decades and continues to evolve with technological advancements.