Battle Against Cancer

Cancer affects thousands of people, young and old alike.  There are several types of treatments used against this sometimes fatal disease.  Among these is radiation therapy.  Radiation therapy may be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments, most often being that of surgery.  With radiation treatment, cancer is being effectively treated in many cases.

Radiation therapy may be given either internally or externally.  Radiation therapy targets only certain areas, affecting only the cancer cells within that particular area.  Radiation therapy targets the faster growing cancer cells as normal cells reproduce at a slower rate.  As a result of the radiation, the cells’ DNA is damaged, therefore killing the abnormal cells.  In order to minimize healthy tissue damage, radiation beams are aimed precisely at the cancerous area.  Treatments are also divided into several sessions as another protective means, as well as using the minimum effective dose.  Side effects are common with radiation therapy.  Side effects are greatly determined by the tumor location and area where the radiation is delivered.  Side effects may include, but are not limited to, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.  Other less aggravating side effects may include redness, tenderness, and soreness surrounding the area where radiation is used.  Side effects will generally subside within a few weeks of completing the radiation therapy course.

Cancer is a disease feared by most people.  Radiation therapy is only one method used in the ongoing battle against this dreaded disease.  With the ongoing research, and development of new treatments for battling cancer, we hope to one day eradicate this dreaded disease.