Cancer Treatment & Different Types Of Radiations

Radiation therapy, often used before or after cancer surgery, is a concept many of us are somewhat familiar with. Today, I will explain in simple terms what radiation therapy is, its types, and the latest advancements in radiation technology, in a way that is easy for non-medical individuals to understand.

In the treatment of cancer, the primary goal of radiation is to destroy microscopic cancer cells. This can be done before or after surgery, depending on the type of cancer and its spread. The type of radiation we are most familiar with is scientifically known as "External Beam Radiation Therapy." This is a non-invasive method, meaning it is administered from outside the body. A specialized modern device called a linear accelerator delivers radiation to specific areas of the body.

There are several types of this radiation therapy. The names vary depending on the pattern of radiation, its intensity, and how it is delivered. While I won’t go into the detailed names, it’s important to understand that doctors recommend the best radiation type for each patient based on the cancer type, its location, and spread. The term "best" is used because, in some cases, more than one type of radiation may be applicable. However, these treatments vary in cost, and while the doctor may suggest the best possible option, if the patient is unable to afford it, they can opt for the next best alternative. Although this may reduce the cost, the treatment won’t be 100% customized and may cause slightly more harm to healthy cells.

It’s important to note that radiation not only destroys cancer cells but also affects healthy cells. However, based on the balance of benefits and potential harm, radiation is tailored to the cancer patient. High-energy photon particles and gamma rays are used in these treatments.

The cost of this common radiation therapy generally ranges from 1 to 3 lakhs, depending on its intensity and precision.

There is another advanced form of radiation therapy called Proton Therapy. In traditional radiation therapy, the high-energy particles pass through the body, but in proton therapy, high-energy proton particles are used. These protons specifically target the cancer cells, delivering maximum energy right at the affected area and destroying the cancer cells, with minimal energy exiting the body. A proton beam accelerator, a special and advanced machine, is required for this therapy, as it generates high-energy positive ion particles (protons) and rapidly accelerates them to increase their energy. These protons are then directed with great precision to the cancerous area. The accuracy and effectiveness of this therapy are remarkable, but it is not yet easily accessible to the middle-income group, as the treatment starts at around 22 to 25 lakhs. Moreover, only one hospital in India currently offers this therapy.

India is the only country in South-West Asia that provides this service in a single hospital.

From my personal experience, I have seen many patients disappointed after learning about proton therapy, as they were unaware of its high costs beforehand.

Now, let’s discuss another advanced radiation technique.

Post-surgical radiation is typically given to destroy any remaining microscopic cancer cells that may be left behind after surgery. These residual cells can potentially cause the cancer to return or spread to other areas. To address this, a revolutionary type of radiation therapy called "Intraoperative Electron Radiation Therapy (IOeRT)" has been developed.

This technology delivers radiation directly to the area around the tumor during surgery while the surgical site is still open. It destroys any microscopic cancer cells during the operation itself, reducing the need for additional radiation sessions after surgery. This improves the success rate of the treatment, minimizes side effects, and helps the patient recover and return to normal life more quickly. This is undoubtedly a significant advancement in cancer treatment.

Although the exact cost of this treatment is not clear, it is expected to be relatively affordable, as it involves a single exposure. In India recently this has started.

I hope this gives you a general understanding of radiation therapy. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to me personally.

Thank you.

Cancer Fighter Rana Bhattacharyya

#radiationoncology #RadiationTherapy #radiation #ioert #ProtonTherapy