Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are two common treatments for cancer. Though they have similar names, they are actually quite different. This blog post will explain the difference between radiation and chemotherapy, and how they each work to treat cancer.
What is Radiation?
Radiation therapy is the use of high-energy radiation to treat cancer. Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, or other cancer treatments. Radiation therapy works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which prevents them from growing and dividing. Radiation therapy can be delivered externally, through a machine that directs beams of radiation at the tumor (external beam radiation therapy), or internally, through implants that deliver radiation directly to the tumor site (brachytherapy).
Radiation therapy is a very precise treatment, and great care is taken to ensure that as much of the radiation as possible is directed at cancer while sparing normal tissue. Radiation therapists work closely with other members of the healthcare team, such as oncologists and physicists, to develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient.
What is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given intravenously (by IV) or taken orally in pill form. Chemotherapy drugs are typically given in cycles, with each cycle consisting of a period of treatment followed by a period of rest. The side effects of chemotherapy vary depending on the type and dose of the drug but may include fatigue, nausea, and hair loss. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with other cancer treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy.
Difference between Radiation and Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are two common cancer treatments. Radiation therapy uses high-energy waves to destroy cancer cells, while chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Both Radiation therapy and chemotherapy can cause side effects, such as fatigue, hair loss, and nausea. Radiation therapy is typically given over the course of several weeks, while chemotherapy is usually given in cycles over a period of months.
Radiation therapy is usually only used to treat cancers that are localized, while chemotherapy can be used to treat both localized and metastatic cancers. Ultimately, the decision of which treatment to use depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health.
Conclusion
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are both treatments used to fight cancer. They differ in how they work, the side effects they cause, and who can receive them. If you or someone you know is diagnosed with cancer, it’s important to understand the difference between radiation and chemotherapy so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
