Q: How Does Radiation Therapy Treat Cancer? What Are the Benefits?
- Category: Education
- Posted On:
- Written By: Amanda Akey
A: Radiation uses focused, high-dose X-rays to attack the DNA of cancer cells. This destroys the blueprints of the cells, so when they try to divide, they die. In radiation therapy, the side effects are limited to where the radiation is targeted. For example, treating cancer below the head will not cause hair loss. Treatments are fast, and you cannot feel them, similar to getting a CT scan.
Addison Willett, M.D., J.D., M.B.A.
Radiation oncologist with Infirmary Cancer Care
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