Radiotherapy – What you Need to Know
Radiotherapy is one kind of treatment used to combat cancer; the medical world has invested trillions of dollars trying to find a cure for cancer, yet so far, the best we have come up with are treatments such as radiotherapy. It is also known as radiation therapy, the treatment uses beams of intense energy to kill cancer cells; this form of treatment can be used inside or outside of the body and the exterior application uses a linear accelerator to target cancer cells with a beam of intense energy, which is called external beam radiation therapy.
Interior radiation therapy
Known as brachytherapy, this is a common treatment for interior cancer, when a probe is inserted close to the affected area. While radiation therapy is an effective way to eradicate cancer cells, it also impacts healthy cells, yet they can quickly be replaced by a natural process. One of the most successful applications is radiotherapy for liver cancer and there are hospitals that specialise in cancer treatment, where you can consult with an experienced healthcare professional and receive the best treatment.
When radiotherapy is recommended
There are numerous situations when radiotherapy is the best treatment;
- As a primary cancer treatment
- Pre-surgery to shrink cancerous areas
- Post-surgery to remove remaining cancer cells
- Used in conjunction with chemotherapy to target cancer cells
- To relieve symptoms with advanced cancer
We should all be screened for cancer at regular intervals, as early treatment is the best way to eradicate all forms of cancer. In the event cancer is detected, a biopsy is performed to get further information, then effective treatment can be carried out.
Specialist hospitals
Cancer is one of the biggest killers in all parts of the world and here in Thailand, there are world-class cancer hospitals in Bangkok, and they can be found with a Google search. Top of the range equipment and the best medical professionals ensure that you have the very best treatment; many patients receive an all-clear when their treatment is complete. Click here to find out about the importance of fiber in your diet.
GP referrals
Typically, a patient would be referred to a cancer hospital by their GP and a biopsy would be carried out for lab analysis. There are many forms of cancer and this disease can be treated in many different ways; regular cancer screening is recommended for all; this could be part of your annual checkup; it is worth spending a day at a hospital to find out how your health is.
Discussing treatment options
Once cancer has been diagnosed, the specialist would sit down with you and discuss the various options, along with the side effects that each includes. It is important that the patient is fully informed and treatment plans are not set in stone, rather changes may be made according to response.
We should never take our health & well-being for granted and annual cancer screening is advised for peace of mind.