What is the objective of radiation therapy in cancer treatment?

The objective of radiation therapy in cancer treatment is to use high energy particles or waves to destroy cancer cells. This modality exploits the principle that cancer cells are more sensitive to radiation compared to normal cells, primarily because they are often dividing more rapidly. When high-energy beams, such as X-rays or gamma rays, are directed at the tumor, they cause damage to the DNA within the cancer cells, leading to cell death or the inability of the cells to divide and grow.

Radiation therapy can be utilized in various scenarios, such as curative treatment for certain types of cancer, adjuvant treatment in conjunction with surgery or chemotherapy to eliminate residual disease, or palliative care to relieve symptoms caused by tumors. Understanding this mechanism is crucial in oncology, as effective cancer management often requires a combination of therapies tailored to the individual patient's situation.