Dispelling Myths about Radiation Therapy

Radiology

Dispelling Myths about Radiation Therapy

admin Aug 01, 2024

Radiation therapy refers to a crucial and effective treatment modality in the war against Cancer. It is natural that any individual about to undergo treatment for Cancer may be fearful about its results as well as impacts. Recent advances in technology have transformed the domain of Radiation Oncology, radically decreased the incidence of adverse events as well as enhanced treatment outcomes. Despite this, certain misconceptions persist regarding the effectiveness and complications of Radiation Oncology.

Here, we have addressed a few predominant myths regarding Radiation Oncology:

Myth 1: Radiation Therapy is Painful.

Fact: It is a pain-free treatment, and usually, anybody who undergoes radiation therapy does not feel pain, warmth, or heat when the treatment is given. However, one may experience skin irritation, redness, and throat/mouth ulcers because of RT (which might lead to pain).

Myth 2: Radiation Therapy makes Patients Radioactive.

Fact: Radiation therapy does not make patients radioactive. The radiation utilized in cancer treatment is vigilantly controlled and targeted to the specific portion of the body where it is required. Once the treatment is finished, patients can lead an everyday life around family, companions, kids, and others.

Myth 3: Radiation Therapy Leads to Radiation-induced Cancer.

Fact: While it's true that radiation therapy involves radiation exposure, the risk of developing radiation-induced cancers because of radiation therapy is generally low. Radiation oncologists vigilantly calculate and administer radiation doses to lessen damage to healthy tissues while effectively targeting cancer cells. The perks of radiation therapy in treating Cancer often outweigh the potential risks of developing radiation-induced Cancer.

Myth 4: All Radiation Therapies are similar.

Fact: There are several forms of radiation therapies, each designed for specific cancer forms and stages. The diverse approaches comprise external beam radiation, brachytherapy, and stereotactic radiosurgery. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual patient's requirements, ensuring optimal efficiency with minimal side effects.

Myth 5: Radiation Therapy is only for Metastasised Cancer.

Fact: Radiation therapy can be employed at several stages of Cancer, comprising early stages. It may be utilised as a primary treatment or with surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. The decision relies on factors such as cancer type, location, and the overall patient's health.

Myth 6: Radiation Therapy Causes Total Hair Loss from the Head or Scalp.

Fact: Patients receiving radiation therapy specifically to the head may experience partial loss of hair on the scalp. However, radiation therapy targeted at other body portions does not result in scalp hair loss. Hair loss typically occurs only in the portion receiving radiation. For instance, patients undergoing breast radiation therapy may experience some hair loss in the armpit area, while male patients getting radiation therapy may lose facial, beard, or moustache hair.

Myth 7: Radiation Therapy Causes Nausea as well as Vomiting.

Fact: Radiation therapy alone does not generally induce nausea/vomiting unless it is given concurrently with chemotherapy/targeted to the abdominal portion. For instance, breast radiation therapy may sometimes cause mild nausea but does not typically result in vomiting.

Myth 8: Radiation Therapy (RT) is not required or advantageous after the Complete Removal of a Tumour.

Fact: Even post the complete surgical removal of a tumour, residual cancer cells may remain in the operated portion, increasing the risk of disease recurrence. Radiation therapy is generally given to reduce or minimize the probability of local disease recurrence. Oncologists vigilantly assess the risk of local recurrence and the potent perks of regional radiation therapy prior to advising its usage.

Myth 9: Post Radiation Therapy (RT), an individual feels Warm and should eat a lot of Cold Food Items.

Fact: Radiation therapy does not typically cause a sensation of heat/warmth. There is no requirement to alter dietary habits, and individuals can continue to eat cold food and liquids as they normally would.

Myth 10: Radiation Leads to Skin Burns

Fact: RT does not cause skin burning, but it does lead to redness, darkening, and peeling of the skin in the local portion being treated. The magnitude of these side effects differs from individual to individual and relies on the portion being treated. These effects are generally temporary and gradually enhance post-RT completion.

In a nutshell, understanding the realities of radiation therapy is crucial for individuals facing cancer treatment decisions. By dispelling these predominant myths, we hope to alleviate fears and provide a more precise portrayal of the role as well as benefits of radiation therapy in the expedition towards cancer recovery.