Dr. Rajesh Patel, MD. Ask the Doctor! May 2009 Q: Why would I need radiation therapy and how is it delivered? -- M. Downey, Scranton, PA A: Cancer is a disease in which cells divide and multiply without any "brakes." This unregulated growth will result in abnormal functioning of the body to varying degrees. Radiation helps eliminate these harmful cells by breaking apart their structure and preventing further destructive growth. The basic objective is to destroy as many of these irregular cells while preserving the normal ones. We’re finding more ways to achieve this goal. Some drugs can utilize our own immune system as a way to target cancer cells, similar to fighting off a virus. Other advances include the concurrent use of medications and heat application, allowing us to make cancer cells more vulnerable to radioactive energy. Therefore, radiation therapy can often be an effective adjunct to other modes of treatment. Roughly half of all cancer patients will benefit from radiotherapy. It is a viable option in several cancers including that of the blood, brain, breast, cervix, larynx, lung, lymphatics, pancreas, prostate, skin, soft tissue, spine, stomach, and uterus. Not only can radiation be used to mitigate an existing cancer, it can often prevent certain cells from growing abnormally in the first place. Moreover, radiation can provide substantial relief from the pain associated with certain types of cancer. The method of delivery really depends on the nature and extent of the disease. Most recipients will benefit from radioactive energy applied via a machine outside of the body. However, some individuals may need radiation employed directly into the body, either as a sealed local implant or as an injection/pill that travels throughout the bloodstream. Patients may also benefit from chemotherapy and/or surgical intervention, with or without the use of radiotherapy. You and your physician will discuss the pros and cons of every mode of therapy in order to develop a suitable approach to care. Submit your questions to askthedoctor@nowoodennickels.org Copyright 2009 - No Wooden Nickels All Rights Reserved.