Areas of Care

Radiotherapy

In radiotherapy, advanced techniques such as proton therapy, IMRT, and SBRT are coordinated to target the tumor while protecting healthy tissue across our accredited network.

What is radiotherapy?

Radiotherapy (radiation therapy) is a treatment that uses high-energy rays to damage the DNA of cancer cells and stop them from multiplying.

It is one of the core methods of cancer treatment; it can be used alone, with surgery, or with chemotherapy. Advanced techniques let the tumor receive a high dose while surrounding healthy tissue is spared.

What are the types of radiotherapy?

The main methods by how the radiation is delivered:

External (external-beam) radiotherapy

Delivering radiation to the tumor from a machine outside the body; the most common method.

IMRT / VMAT

Intensity-modulated, precise irradiation conforming to the tumor shape.

SBRT / SRS

Stereotactic methods focusing a very high dose on the target in a few sessions.

Proton therapy

An advanced method that deposits its energy right at the tumor, sparing healthy tissue further.

Brachytherapy

Placing a radioactive source inside or near the tumor (internal radiation).

How is radiotherapy delivered?

Treatment is prepared individually through a careful planning process:

Simulation: mapping the treatment area with CT
Planning: physicist and oncologist determine dose and fields
Delivery: usually short, painless daily sessions
Number of sessions: from a few days to a few weeks depending on the treatment
Follow-up: monitoring treatment response and side effects

Which cancers is it used for?

Radiotherapy is used effectively in many cancers:

Breast, lung, prostate, and head-neck cancers
Cervical and other gynecological cancers
Brain tumors (with SRS/SBRT)
Some blood cancers such as lymphoma
For palliative purposes to control pain and symptoms

Side effects of radiotherapy

Side effects vary by treatment area and dose; most are temporary:

Skin redness and irritation in the treatment area
Fatigue
Regional effects (e.g., dry mouth or throat irritation in head-neck)
Nausea (in abdominal treatments)
Modern techniques largely protect healthy tissue

Advantages of modern radiotherapy

Advanced techniques make treatment safer and more effective:

High precision

Targeting the tumor while sparing surrounding organs.

Organ preservation

Preserving function as an alternative to surgery.

Fewer sessions

Shorter treatment with methods such as SBRT.

Power of combination

Increased effectiveness together with surgery and chemotherapy.

Every patient and every tumor is different

No single treatment is right for everyone; the best plan depends on your exact diagnosis, stage, and tumor characteristics. At National Cancer Alliance, we arrange a free second opinion from board-certified oncologists to review your case.

Frequently asked questions

Is radiotherapy painful?

No. There is no pain during irradiation; sessions usually last a few minutes.

Will I emit radiation after radiotherapy?

With external radiotherapy your body does not emit radiation; there is no risk to those around you.

Will I lose my hair?

Hair loss occurs only in the area being irradiated, not all over the body (unlike chemotherapy).

Should I get a second opinion?

The radiotherapy technique and dose affect outcomes; an independent radiation oncologist review helps define the best plan.

Ready for a plan built around you?

Start with a free, no-obligation second opinion from a board-certified oncologist. Have your case reviewed and every option explained clearly.

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This page provides general information about radiotherapy; it is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All treatments are provided by independent, accredited hospitals and licensed physicians. Your treatment decision should be made by a qualified physician based on your individual situation.