Care for Cancer Patients undergoing radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses ionized radiation, such as X-rays, gamma rays, high-energy electrons, or heavy particles, to destroy cancer cells in the body. Modern radiation therapy techniques are highly precise, directing radiation beams at the cancer site while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

The therapy works by damaging the genetic material of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. Although healthy cells may also be affected, they can recover more effectively than cancer cells. The main goal of radiation therapy is to treat cancer while causing minimal harm to healthy tissues.

Radiation therapy can be administered externally or internally, and in some cases, both methods are used. The most common method is external beam radiation therapy, where a device called a linear accelerator directs high-energy beams at specific areas of the body. Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) involves placing small solid implants near or within the cancer site.