Radiation therapy is a common cancer treatment that uses focused energy to kill cancer cells. It works by damaging the cancer cells so they can’t grow or spread. Over time, the cancer shrinks or disappears.
Radiation can be used to treat cancer early, lower the chance of it coming back, or help relieve symptoms if the cancer has spread.
Two Main Ways Radiation Is Given
- External Beam Radiation: A machine outside your body aims radiation at the cancer. It’s very precise, which helps protect the healthy tissue around it.
- Brachytherapy: A small radiation source is placed inside your body close to the tumor, delivering treatment right where it’s needed.