Radiotherapy Treatment in India

Radiotherapy Treatment in India

Radiotherapy/Radiation Therapy is a crucial component in the treatment of cancer. It involves the targeted use of high-energy radiation to eradicate cancer cells or shrink tumours. This versatile treatment modality employs ionising radiation, such as X-rays, gamma rays, or charged particles, to damage the DNA within cancer cells, impairing their ability to grow and divide. Radiotherapy can be delivered externally or internally and is often used in conjunction with other treatment modalities like surgery and chemotherapy.

Types of Radiotherapy:

• External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT): This is the most common form of radiotherapy, involving the use of a machine called a linear accelerator (LINAC). The LINAC directs high-energy radiation beams precisely at the tumour from outside the body, sparing surrounding healthy tissues. Techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT), Image-Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT), and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) enhance precision and reduce side effects.
• Brachytherapy: This internal radiotherapy technique involves placing radioactive sources directly into or near the tumour. By delivering radiation in close proximity, brachytherapy allows for high dose concentration while minimising exposure to nearby healthy tissues. Common types of brachytherapy include intracavitary, interstitial, and intraluminal brachytherapy.
• Systemic Radioisotope Therapy: This form of internal radiotherapy employs radioactive substances administered intravenously or orally. The radioactive agents selectively accumulate in tumour cells, delivering radiation internally and targeting cancer sites throughout the body. Examples include radioactive iodine (I-131) for thyroid cancer and radium-223 for metastatic prostate cancer.

Mechanisms of Action: Radiotherapy exerts its anti-cancer effects primarily by damaging the DNA of cancer cells. Ionising radiation interacts with the atoms in DNA molecules, generating free radicals and causing breaks in the DNA strands. This disrupts the replication and division of cancer cells, leading to their death. Additionally, radiation can damage the blood vessels that support tumour growth, further impeding the tumour's ability to receive nutrients and oxygen.

Treatment Planning and Delivery: Radiotherapy treatment begins with a thorough process of treatment planning, which involves imaging techniques (e.g., CT, MRI, PET scans) to precisely delineate the tumour and determine the optimal radiation dose. Radiation oncologists work closely with medical physicists and dosimetrists to design a treatment plan that maximises tumour control while minimising healthy tissue exposure. The treatment delivery schedule is determined based on the specific cancer type, stage, and overall treatment goals.

During treatment sessions, the patient lies on a treatment table while the radiation machine is positioned carefully. Modern techniques utilise image guidance to verify the tumour position before each treatment, ensuring accuracy. The treatment itself is painless, similar to getting an X-ray, and patients are often required to remain still to aid in accurate radiation delivery. Radiotherapy is usually administered in multiple sessions, known as fractions, over a few weeks to allow healthy tissues to recover between treatments.

Potential Side Effects: Radiotherapy's targeted approach minimises damage to healthy tissues, but some side effects may still occur due to their sensitivity to radiation. The type and severity of side effects depend on the area being treated, the dose of radiation, and the individual patient's tolerance. Common side effects include fatigue, skin reactions (e.g., redness, itching), hair loss (in the treated area), nausea, and temporary changes in bowel or urinary function. Most side effects are temporary and can be managed with medications or supportive care.

If you or a loved one is facing a cancer diagnosis, consult with a qualified oncologist to explore the potential benefits of radiotherapy as part of your treatment plan. Remember, early detection and timely intervention are key to improving outcomes. Together, we can combat cancer and strive for a healthier future.