Breast cancer is a prevalent malignancy affecting women globally, as reported by the World Health Organization. The disease affects millions of women annually. Nonetheless, with the emergence of advanced medical technology and treatment alternatives, survival rates have significantly improved in recent times. Among the treatment options available, radiation therapy stands out as a viable solution.
What is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a highly effective method used to treat breast cancer. It involves the use of high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to destroy cancer cells and prevent them from multiplying. This targeted approach can be a crucial part of a comprehensive treatment plan for breast cancer patients.
The primary goal of radiation therapy for breast cancer is to eliminate any remaining cancer cells in the breast or surrounding areas after surgery. It aims to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve overall survival rates. Radiation therapy can be administered after a lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery) or a mastectomy (complete removal of the breast).
You will find some of the greatest medical professionals do radiation therapy in India as well and radiation therapy cost in India is far more affordable as compared with other renowned nations in the globe, therefore when receiving treatment there, Patients can rest certain that their care is in the hands of some of the top professionals in the field of radiation treatment in India.
Furthermore, there are some of the best cancer hospitals in India, with highly skilled medical staff and cutting-edge technology. Compassionate care, individualized treatment programs, and the most recent developments in cancer research are all things that patients may expect.
Types of Radiation Therapy
Types of radiation therapy for breast cancer:
- external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and
EBRT is the most common approach and involves directing radiation beams from an external machine toward the affected area. This method allows for precise targeting of the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Brachytherapy, on the other hand, involves placing radioactive sources directly into the breast tissue near the tumor. This technique delivers a high dose of radiation to the tumor while sparing healthy tissues. Brachytherapy is typically used in specific cases, such as for patients who have undergone breast-conserving surgery.
What Takes Place During Breast Cancer Radiation Treatment?
A team member will welcome you and provide you with a medical gown to wear throughout the procedure when you arrive for treatment. Then they’ll:
- You will be escorted to the treatment area.
- Assist you in getting onto the treatment table. During therapy, patients often lie on their backs, but occasionally they also lie on their stomachs. Depending on the course of treatment, how you lie. You will raise an arm above your head, on the same side as the cancerous breast.
- Assist in positioning you in the immobilization device. Your healthcare provider might place a flat piece of rubber or a damp towel on the area of your breast that is being treated if you are having radiation therapy following a mastectomy. This contributes to increasing the radiation dose delivered to the skin.
- The first area to be treated will then be lined up with the linear accelerator. They will leave the room during treatment, as your team will have indicated, but they will still be able to see you and hear you.
- The machine will be activated. Although radiation beams are invisible and you won’t feel anything, you will hear a whirring sound.
- A staff will assist you in rising from the treatment table after the session is over.
Radiation therapy is usually administered over a period of several weeks, with daily sessions lasting just a few minutes. The treatment is painless and does not require hospitalization. However, it may cause some side effects, such as fatigue, skin irritation, and temporary breast swelling. These side effects are generally temporary and can be managed with appropriate medical care.
It is important to note that radiation therapy is often used in combination with other breast cancer treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy, to achieve the best possible outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their specific needs.
Self-Care Measures You May Need To Take Before, During, and After Treatment
Radiation therapy can cause your skin to feel extremely irritable, unpleasant, and tender. You may lose your appetite and get quite exhausted as a result. Here are some ideas to support you during your treatment:
- Dress comfortably in cotton. Your breasts may get painful or hurt if you wear clothing or a bra that is too tight.
- Use warm water and mild soap to wash your skin. Request creams or lotions from your radiation therapy team that will lessen treatment side effects without causing skin damage.
- Take plenty of rest as you could have extreme fatigue as a result of radiation therapy, particularly in the final few treatments. You might need to arrange some downtime each day.
- Eat sensibly. You will be able to endure therapy better if you consume a diet rich in wholesome grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products.
- Take a workout. You can manage your fatigue by engaging in regular, mild activity, such as a daily 30-minute stroll.
In conclusion ,radiation therapy plays a vital role in the treatment of breast cancer. It is a powerful tool that effectively targets cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. By including radiation therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, healthcare professionals can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome for breast cancer patients.