Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment where high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation are used to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing. There are two types of radiation therapy:
- External radiation therapy: A machine outside the body is used to send radiation toward the cancer. The total dose of radiation therapy may be divided into several smaller, equal doses which are delivered over a period of time spanning over several days.
- Internal radiation therapy: A radioactive substance may be placed directly into or near the cancer.
The type of radiation therapy used depends on the type and stage of the cancer being treated.
However, radiation therapy is associated with a number of side-effects including:
- Urinary problems
- Increased risk of bladder cancer and rectal cancer
- Impotence
