Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment method that uses high-energy radiation to destroy malignant cells or reduce tumor size. It is one of the most widely used oncological treatment modalities and may be applied as a standalone therapy or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. Radiation therapy allows targeted treatment of tumors with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissues, making it both effective and safe.
Indications for radiation therapy
- Cancer treatment. Radiation therapy is used for a wide range of malignancies, including breast cancer, lung cancer, head and neck tumors, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, and others.
- Neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy. Radiotherapy may be applied to reduce tumor size prior to surgery or to eradicate residual malignant cells after surgical intervention.
- Treatment of metastases. Radiation therapy is used to control metastatic lesions in other organs or lymph nodes.
How is radiation therapy performed?
Radiation therapy can be delivered as internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) or external beam radiation therapy. In external beam radiation therapy, the radiation source is located outside the patient’s body, and beams are directed toward the tumor from an external device. This method is suitable for tumors located both superficially and deep within the body.
In brachytherapy, a radioactive source is placed directly inside the tumor or in close proximity to it, allowing highly precise radiation delivery with reduced exposure of surrounding healthy tissues.
Radiation therapy procedures are generally painless and are most often performed on an outpatient basis. Each treatment session lasts only a few minutes, although the total course duration varies depending on the tumor type, stage, and treatment plan.
In Belarus, radiation therapy is provided in modern oncology centers equipped with advanced high-precision radiotherapy systems. Experienced specialists apply an individualized approach to each patient, ensuring optimal treatment outcomes. Affordable costs combined with a high standard of medical care make Belarus an attractive destination for cancer treatment.
