Radiation Therapy

What is radiation therapy?

Radiation therapy is the use of high-energy rays or implanted radioactive pellets to treat cancer. Special equipment is used to aim these rays directly at cancer tumors. Radiation is given either externally or internally. Radiation is sometimes called radiotherapy, X-ray therapy, cobalt therapy, brachytherapy, or irradiation.

Why is radiation therapy given to cancer patients?

• To cure cancer
• To keep the cancer from spreading
• To slow the cancer's growth
• To relieve symptoms that may be caused by the cancer
• To ease pain due to cancer

Why are there side effects when someone receives radiation therapy?

Cancer cells grow and divide rapidly. Radiation therapy kills fast-growing cells and keeps them from growing and dividing. The amount and intensity of radiation delivered to surrounding normal cells is minimized since treatment is directed to the desired area with much precision. Side effects that occur and their level of severity depend on the area being treated and the intensity (dose) of the radiation treatment.

What are the most common side effects of radiation therapy?

Because normal cells are affected during radiation therapy, there are certain side effects that are more common than others, including:

• Fatigue (most commonly reported side effect among all cancer patients)
• Skin reaction
• Other side effects are specific to the area being treated. These possible side effects will be discussed with you at the time of your radiation treatment consultation.

Department of Radiation Oncology

540 Canfield East
Detroit, MI 48201

To make an appointment or questions phone: (313) 745-9191 or 1-800 KARMANOS

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