Introduction

Cancer is one of the severe diseases that is extensively affecting millions lives worldwide. According to the WHO, cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, responsible for an estimated 10 million death in 2020 alone. However, with advancements in technology and treatment options, the prognosis for many cancer patients has improved significantly. One such treatment is radiation therapy, a critical component of cancer care that targets cancer cells with high-energy radiation. Radiation oncologist are medical professionals who specialize in the use of radiation therapy to treat cancer. In this blog, we will get the inside scoop on how radiation oncologist really treats cancer.

But before that, let's understand what radiation therapy is.

Understanding Radiation Therapy for Cancer

Radiation therapy, commonly known as radiotherapy, is treatment option for cancer. It involves using high-energy radiation, such as X-rays, Gamma rays, or proton beams, to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours. Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with other cancer treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.

The radiation used in therapy damages the DNA in cancer cells, which prevents them from growing and dividing. Cancer cells cannot repair themselves as effectively as healthy cells after radiation damage, so they are more likely to die off. Radiation therapy is usually delivered from outside the body using a machine called a linear accelerator, which precisely targets the cancerous area. In sone cases, radiation therapy may be delivered internally through a procedure called brachytherapy.

Radiation therapy can be given as a curative treatment, aiming to cure cancer completely, or as a palliative treatment, aiming to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced or metastatic cancer. The type and length of radiation therapy will vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.

The Role of a Radiation Oncologist

MD Radiation oncologist are medical professionals who are responsible and specialized in the use of radiation therapy to treat cancer. They work closely with other cancer care team members to develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs.

Some of the common responsibilities of a Radiation oncologist involve assessing the patient's medical history, creating treatment plans, overseeing the administration and ensuring patients' safety, monitoring their progress, and managing the side effects and discomforts. They also provide emotional support and counselling to patients and their families throughout treatment.

How radiation oncologist treat cancer step-by-step

Radiation oncologists treat cancer by developing a comprehensive treatment plan that outlines the type, dose and length of the radiation therapy required to effectively treat cancer while minimizing side effects. Here is an inside step-by-step overview of how they work.

1. Consultation and Evaluation: The first step in treating cancer with radiation therapy is an initial consultation with a radiation oncologist. During this consultation, the radiation oncologist will evaluate the patient's medical history and current health status and determine if radiation therapy is an appropriate treatment option.
   
   
2. Simulation and planning: Once it is determined that radiation therapy is appropriate, the radiation oncologist will work with the patient to create a simulation and treatment plan. This involves using imaging technology, such as CT scans or MRI scans, to create a 3D map of the cancerous area, which allows the radiation oncologist to precisely target the cancer cells and target them effectively.
   
   
3. Treatment Delivery: Radiation therapy is usually delivered from outside the body using a machine called a linear accelerator. The radiation oncologist and radiation therapist work together to ensure that the patient is positioned correctly and the radiation beam is aimed precisely at the cancerous area. The patient will receive radiation therapy daily over the course of several weeks, with each treatment session lasting only a few minutes.
   
   
4. Side effect management: Radiation therapy can cause early side effects, such as fatigue, skin irritation, or nausea. The radiation oncologist will monitor the patient's progress throughout the course of treatment and manage any side effects that may occur. In some cases, medication or other therapies may be prescribed to help manage side effects.
   
   
5. Follow-Up care: After the radiation therapy is completed, the patient will continue to be monitored closely by the radiation oncologist and other members of the cancer care team. Follow-up imaging tests and appointments will be scheduled to ensure that cancer has been effectively treated and to monitor for any sign of recurrence.

Conclusion

Radiation therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of cancer, and radiation oncologist are the ones delivering amazing results and saving millions of lives. With the advancement in technology and research, they have become a more prominent member in treating cancer. However, early detection remains key in improving cancer outcomes, and if you or someone you know is experiencing any concerning symptoms or has been diagnosed with cancer, it is essential to reach out to the oncology department for proper evaluation and treatment. Remember, if cancer detected at an early stage is a curable disease, early detection and timely treatment can make all the difference in the fight against it. Don't hesitate to take action and seek help from the experts to improve your life.