Radiation therapy is another conventional treatment method used to treat cancer. The mechanism of action is that it damages DNA. The damage is done directly by atomic particles (i.e., protons, electrons, neutrons or ions) that are shot at the tumor and end up directly damaging the DNA chain of the cells; or indirectly by creating extremely reactive free radicals in the water which then damage the DNA. It is theorized that because cancer cells have less DNA-repairing capability, they would be more susceptible to radiation exposure than normal cells.
Radiation therapy is usually used when the tumor is localized. If the cancer has metastasized, it is usually untreatable with radiation, since radiation therapy cannot be used to treat the entire body. In some situations, part of the tumor is surgically removed, and the rest is treated with radiation therapy. continue reading…
