Radiation therapy uses targeted doses of radiation to treat cancer and certain other conditions. It works by damaging the DNA inside cells, preventing cancer cells from growing or dividing. Healthy cells are generally better at repairing this damage, while cancer cells are not, which is why radiation can be so effective.
Radiation therapy may be used on its own or as part of a broader treatment plan that includes surgery or chemotherapy.
Radiation can be used in several ways:
Alongside other treatments to boost effectiveness or reduce the chance of recurrence.
Radiation therapy can be delivered in a few different ways, depending on where the cancer is, how large it is, and the type of cancer being treated. The main types include:
Your care team will recommend the best approach—or combination of approaches—based on your specific needs. The goal is to target cancer cells while protecting healthy tissue as much as possible.
Radiation therapy has been used to treat cancer for over a century—and today’s treatments are safer and more precise than ever. Your care team carefully plans every detail before treatment begins, using advanced imaging and technology to focus radiation on the cancer while protecting nearby healthy tissue.
The team monitors your progress throughout your treatment and double-checks the machines and settings to ensure everything stays accurate and safe.
If you're receiving external beam radiation, you won’t be radioactive after treatment—radiation doesn’t stay in your body. If you're receiving brachytherapy (internal radiation), your doctor will explain any precautions you may need to take, depending on whether the radioactive material is temporary or permanent.
Some people worry that radiation therapy could cause cancer years later. While that risk exists, it’s very small—and for most patients, the benefits of treating cancer now far outweigh that risk. If you have concerns, your radiation oncologist or nurse can walk you through them.
Before Treatment: Getting Started
Once you’ve been diagnosed, your care team—including your primary doctor, surgeon, medical oncologist, and radiation oncologist—will work together to create a personalized treatment plan.
If radiation is recommended, you’ll first meet with a radiation oncologist. They’ll review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and go over scans like CTs or MRIs. This helps determine whether radiation therapy is right for you and how it fits into your care.
Simulation and Planning
Before treatment begins, you’ll go through a process called simulation. This helps the team map out exactly where to direct the radiation. During simulation, you'll lie in the position used for treatment while imaging is done to pinpoint the target areas. The team may mark your skin or use small tattoos and supportive devices to help keep you in the same position for each session.
Using these details, your radiation oncologist and a planning team will design a treatment plan that delivers radiation precisely to the tumor while protecting healthy tissue nearby.
During Treatment: What Happens in a Typical Session
Radiation therapy is usually given as outpatient treatment, meaning you don’t have to stay in the hospital. Most patients are treated five days a week for several weeks.
Each session is quick and painless—much like getting an X-ray. You’ll be positioned carefully (with the help of any immobilization devices created during simulation), then the radiation machine will be adjusted to aim at the treatment area. The therapist will monitor everything from a nearby control room and can communicate with you the entire time. You may hear some noises from the machine but won’t feel the radiation.
Treatments typically last 10 to 40 minutes, including setup time.
Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments
Your radiation oncologist will check in regularly to monitor your progress and manage any side effects. The team may adjust your treatment plan based on how your body responds. Weekly imaging (called beam or port films) is also used to ensure everything stays on track.
After Treatment: Follow-Up and Recovery
Once treatment is complete, you’ll continue to have follow-up visits so your doctor can monitor your recovery and check how your body is responding over time. The frequency of these appointments will decrease as you move further from treatment, but your care team will always be available if questions or concerns come up.
Radiation therapy is generally well tolerated, and many patients are able to keep up with their normal routines during treatment. That said, some side effects can develop—usually in the area of the body being treated.
For example:
Most side effects begin a couple of weeks into treatment and may continue for a short time after it ends. They’re usually temporary and manageable, and your care team will offer support and solutions—whether it’s medication, dietary tips, or lifestyle adjustments.
One of the most common side effects is fatigue. It can feel like a general lack of energy, even with plenty of rest. While it’s usually mild, it’s important to listen to your body and take time to rest when needed.
In rare cases, more serious side effects can appear after treatment ends. Your radiation oncologist and nurse will discuss what to expect based on your treatment area and guide you on how to manage any discomfort.
Some people worry that radiation therapy might cause another cancer later in life. While this risk exists, it’s very small—and for most patients, the benefit of treating cancer now far outweighs the long-term risk. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best ways to reduce your overall cancer risk going forward.
Always let your care team know if you're feeling unwell or have concerns. They're here to help you through every step of treatment.
Taking care of your body—and your emotional well-being—is an important part of getting through radiation therapy. Here are some simple ways to support yourself during treatment:
Get Plenty of Rest
Fatigue is a common side effect, so listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Don’t hesitate to lean on family and friends for help with errands or meals so you can conserve your energy.
Follow Your Care Team’s Instructions
Your doctor may give you specific guidelines—like calling if you develop a fever over 101°F. Be sure to ask questions if anything is unclear, and keep an open line of communication with your care team.
Eat a Nourishing Diet
Good nutrition helps your body heal. Depending on your treatment area, you may need to adjust your diet to ease side effects. A dietitian or nurse can help you make healthy choices and ensure you're getting enough calories, vitamins, and fluids. Now isn’t the time to try to lose weight—your body needs fuel.
Care for Your Skin
The skin in the treated area may become dry, red, or sensitive. Here are some general tips:
Your nurse will provide personalized skin care guidance tailored to your treatment area.
Don’t Go Through It Alone
Radiation therapy can be emotionally challenging. It's normal to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even isolated at times. Talking to someone you trust—whether it’s a friend, a counselor, or a support group—can make a big difference. Your care team can help connect you with local or online support resources.
Taking small steps to care for your body and mind can help you feel stronger and more in control during treatment. And remember—you don’t have to do it alone. Your care team is here to support you every step of the way.
Coping with a diagnosis of cancer and researching the various treatment options can be a stressful experience. To assist you in this process, below is a list of questions you may want to ask your radiation oncologist if you are considering radiation therapy.
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