Abstract

Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, is a powerful treatment modality used in the management of cancer. It utilizes high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells, helping to shrink tumors, alleviate symptoms, and improve patient outcomes. Radiotherapy can be delivered externally or internally, depending on the type and location of the cancer, and is often used in combination with other cancer treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy. In this article, we will explore the principles, techniques, and advancements in radiotherapy, highlighting its crucial role in the fight against cancer. Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, is a crucial treatment modality used in the management of cancer. It involves the use of high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells, thereby reducing tumor size and improving patient outcomes. This article provides an abstract overview of radiotherapy, discussing its principles, techniques, and advancements.Radiotherapy works on the principle of damaging the DNA of cancer cells, impairing their ability to grow and divide. This is achieved by delivering ionizing radiation, such as X-rays or gamma rays, to the tumor site. External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) is the most common form of radiotherapy, where radiation is delivered from a machine outside the body. Precise treatment planning and modern techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), enable accurate targeting of tumors while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Internal radiotherapy, also known as brachytherapy, involves placing a radioactive source near or inside the tumor. Brachytherapy allows for higher radiation doses to be delivered directly to the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissues. Advancements in radiotherapy include image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), which uses imaging techniques to accurately locate tumors during treatment, and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which deliver high doses of radiation in a precise manner. Proton therapy, using protons instead of traditional radiation, allows for precise targeting while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. Adaptive radiotherapy, another advancement, involves modifying treatment plans based on changes observed during treatment, ensuring optimal efficacy.Overall, radiotherapy continues to play a vital role in cancer treatment, offering effective and targeted therapy to combat tumors. Advancements in technology and techniques have improved treatment outcomes and reduced side effects. As research progresses, radiotherapy is expected to become even more personalized and integrated with other treatment modalities, further enhancing its effectiveness in the fight against cancer.