Sometimes it is used to shrink tumors prior to surgery. Often it is used to prevent the growth of cancer cells that may remain after surgery. In some cases, doctors prefer to use radiation and anticancer drugs, rather than surgery, to destroy the cancer and prevent its recurrence. Although extraordinary precautions are taken, there is always the chance that some healthy cells may be destroyed during treatment. However, the benefits derived from killing the cancer cells usually outweigh this risk.
Radiation therapy has the potential to cure certain cancers.
It can also prolong a patient's life by slowing the growth of certain types of cancer cells. In cases where it is not possible to cure the cancer, RT can even provide relief from pain, bleeding, pressure or other symptoms related to the malignancy. The experience is much like getting a chest X-ray and, although patients do have to remain very still on a table or chair, every effort is taken to minimize discomfort. Generally, the type of side effect you may experience will depend upon the type of treatment and area of the body being treated. The majority of side effects that do occur, although unpleasant, are not serious and usually disappear within a few weeks.