Understanding Radiation Therapy: What Every Cancer Patient Should Know

Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is one of the most effective and commonly used treatments for cancer. It uses high-energy particles or waves—such as X-rays, gamma rays, electron beams, or protons—to destroy or damage cancer cells. For many patients, radiation therapy is a vital part of their cancer care journey. As an experienced Clinical and Radiation Oncologist, Dr. S. K. M. Rasel helps patients understand this complex treatment and guides them through the process with expert care.

What Is Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells. This damage prevents the cells from growing and dividing, ultimately causing them to die. Unlike chemotherapy, which affects the entire body, radiation therapy is usually a localized treatment—meaning it targets a specific part of the body where cancer is present.

There are two main types of radiation therapy:

1. External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Delivered using machines like linear accelerators, this type targets cancer from outside the body.
2. Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): Involves placing radioactive material inside or near the tumor.

How Does Radiation Therapy Work?

Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with other treatments like surgery and chemotherapy. It may be used to:

• Cure or shrink early-stage cancer
• Stop cancer from coming back
• Treat symptoms caused by advanced cancer (palliative care)

During treatment, a patient lies on a table while a machine directs radiation to the exact cancer location. Sessions typically last only a few minutes and are given five days a week for several weeks, depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Who Needs Radiation Therapy?

Radiation therapy is used for treating many types of cancers including breast, lung, prostate, head and neck, and colorectal cancers. It’s also effective in managing certain blood cancers like lymphoma.

Dr. Rasel evaluates each patient’s case carefully to determine the suitability of radiation therapy. Factors include the type of cancer, location, stage, overall health, and treatment goals.

Side Effects and How to Manage Them

While radiation therapy is generally safe and targeted, it can cause side effects. These depend on the treatment area and dosage, and may include:

• Fatigue
• Skin irritation
• Hair loss (at treatment site)
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in bowel or bladder habits

Dr. Rasel emphasizes a personalized approach to managing side effects. Patients receive nutritional advice, medications for symptom relief, and mental health support throughout their treatment.

Advances in Radiation Therapy

Modern techniques have significantly improved the precision and safety of radiation therapy. These include:

• Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
• Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
• Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)
• Proton Therapy

These technologies allow oncologists like Dr. Rasel to deliver higher doses to tumors while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

Preparing for Radiation Therapy

Patients are typically scheduled for a planning session called a simulation. This involves imaging scans (CT or MRI), skin marking, and making a custom mold to help maintain the same position during each session.

Dr. Rasel and his team guide patients through every step, ensuring they understand the process, expected outcomes, and what to do before and after each session.

Radiation Therapy in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, access to radiation therapy is growing with government and private healthcare investments. However, many patients still face challenges like lack of awareness, late diagnosis, and limited access in rural areas.

Dr. Rasel is committed to improving cancer care by offering advanced radiation therapy and advocating for better infrastructure, awareness, and early screening initiatives.

Emotional and Psychological Support

Cancer treatment is not just physical—it affects every aspect of a patient’s life. At Dr. Rasel’s clinic, emotional well-being is a key focus. Patients and families receive counseling, peer support connections, and stress-reducing resources to navigate the journey.

Final Thoughts

Radiation therapy is a powerful, life-saving tool in cancer treatment. With expert planning, advanced technologies, and compassionate care, it offers hope and healing to many. Under the guidance of Dr. S. K. M. Rasel, patients receive not only cutting-edge treatment but also unwavering support at every stage.

Keywords: radiation therapy, radiation oncologist, cancer treatment Bangladesh, radiotherapy side effects, modern cancer care, Dr. S. K. M. Rasel