Cancer Radiotherapy Facts

Some people may not be fully aware of what cancer radiotherapy facts are all about, especially about the way it actually works. Statistics published by the American Cancer Society state that over 1.5 million new cancer cases are expected this year, and this number seems to be on the rise. Since cancer is becoming so common and at times so inevitable, it’s quite critical to become familiar with cancer radiotherapy facts, especially because this is one of the most effective treatments for the disease. Certainly, radiotherapy will be prescribed by an oncologist, who will tailor the program depending on the type of cancer that is being battled.

How was Cancer Radiotherapy Discovered?

Few people know the actual cancer radiotherapy facts, such as the mechanism it utilizes to fight off the cancerous cells. You certainly have heard of x-rays, which are used to get a better view of your bones and detect any injury. Well, x-rays were somehow discovered by accident by a very well-known physicist by the name of Wilhelm Rontgen, and he continued to study the effects of radiation. Eventually he passed away from a carcinoma that appeared in his intestines, which is believed was caused by the radiation he was exposed to. Nonetheless, other physicist and scientists followed his studies closely, and with the discoveries made by Marie Curie, cancer radiotherapy was made into an actual medical treatment for the disease. The way it works is by attacking the cancerous cells and slowing them down because if not, they will continue to divide with no control.

Types of Radiotherapy

The more you read about cancer radiotherapy facts, the more you will become familiar with the different types of treatments that are available. Keep in mind that not two persons are exactly the same and that’s why you must see an oncologist so he or she can provide the best type of radiotherapy for you. In general terms, there are three main types of cancer radiotherapy, which are:

• External beam–this derives from the original x-rays, which transmitted some type of beam. As the name states, this is done externally and a machine is used to administer the radiation.
• Brachytherapy–opposite to the external beam, this type of radiotherapy is administered inside the body. The source of radiation – which is usually a container –is placed in or close to the tumor.
• Radioisotope therapy–known as RIT, this consists of radioisotopes being infused directly into the bloodstream.

Where to Have Radiotherapy Done

If you or your relative have been diagnosed with cancer, it’s extremely important that you seek the best medical care available. Certainly, there are other worries that will stem from the fact if being ill – such as financial issues and side effects –but when dealing with cancer, time is definitely of the essence. If you don’t have a specialist or an oncologist, visit your primary physician and request a referral to one. Finding the best facility for cancer radiotherapy will depend on the area that you are located in.