Radiation therapy is one of the most effective and commonly used treatments for cancer patients. In recent years, significant advances in radiation therapy technology have led to improved outcomes and reduced side effects, especially in tier-one cities like Mumbai. Any cancer hospital in Mumbai that you may find will be known for its state-of-the-art facilities and top-notch medical professionals who provide world-class cancer care to patients. This article will explore some emerging trends in radiation therapy for cancer treatment.
What Is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy, or radiotherapy, is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. It damages the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. Radiation therapy is be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery and chemotherapy.
There are two main types of radiation therapy: external beam radiation therapy and internal radiation therapy. External beam radiation therapy involves directing a beam of radiation from outside the body onto the cancer cells. Internal radiation therapy, or brachytherapy, involves placing radioactive material directly inside or next to the cancer cells.
Emerging Trends in Radiation Therapy
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)
Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is an external beam radiation therapy that delivers high doses of radiation to small tumours in fewer treatment sessions. This treatment is typically used for early-stage lung, prostate, and liver cancers. The precision of SBRT is achieved by using advanced imaging techniques to accurately target the tumour while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Proton Therapy
Proton therapy is an external beam radiation therapy that uses protons instead of photons to deliver radiation to the tumour. Protons are positively charged particles that can be more precisely controlled than photons, allowing for a higher dose of radiation to be delivered to the tumour while sparing healthy tissue. This treatment is typically used for cancers in areas with critical organs or tissues nearby, such as brain tumours and pediatric cancers.
MRI-guided radiation therapy
MRI-guided radiation therapy is a new approach to external beam radiation therapy that uses real-time MRI imaging to guide the radiation beams. This allows for more accurate radiation delivery to the tumour, as the imaging provides a clear view of the tumour and surrounding tissues. This treatment benefits tumours that move during treatment, such as those in the lung and liver.
Adaptive radiation therapy
Adaptive radiation therapy is a type of external beam radiation therapy that adjusts the radiation dose based on changes in the tumour and surrounding tissues during treatment. This is achieved by using imaging techniques to monitor the tumour and adjust the radiation dose in real-time. This treatment is beneficial for tumours that change in size or shape during treatment, such as those in the head and neck.
Immunoradiation therapy
Immunoradiation therapy is a new approach to radiation therapy that combines radiation with immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells. The combination of radiation therapy and immunotherapy can enhance the body’s immune response to cancer cells, leading to improved outcomes.
Why Is Mumbai a Sought-After Place for Cancer Treatment?
A cancer hospital in Mumbai will offer a comprehensive range of cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and surgery, all under one roof. Mumbai is a sought-after place for cancer treatment due to its well-equipped cancer treatment hospitals, highly qualified doctors, and availability of the latest cancer treatments and technologies, such as the advanced radiation therapy technology used at a cancer treatment hospital in Mumbai.
Radiation therapy is an essential tool in the fight against cancer, and these emerging trends in radiation therapy are helping to improve outcomes and reduce side effects. From SBRT to proton therapy to MRI-guided radiation therapy to adaptive radiation therapy and immunoradiation therapy, these cutting-edge treatments are paving the way for a brighter future for cancer patients.
As with any medical treatment, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine which treatment is right for you. With the continued advancement of radiation therapy technology, cancer patients can now receive more precise and effective treatment than ever before.
