10 Common Myths about Radiation Therapy Busted

Radiation therapy is a crucial and effective treatment modality in the fight against cancer. Unfortunately, common misconceptions about radiation therapy can cause unnecessary anxiety and spread misinformation. This can lead people to make choices about their health based on inaccurate information, or even avoid potentially life-saving treatment. In this blog, we, therefore, aim to debunk some common myths about radiation therapy and empower individuals with a clearer understanding of this indispensable treatment option in the battle against cancer.

Myth 1: Radiation Therapy is Painful.

Fact: It is a painless treatment and usually anybody who undergoes radiation therapydoes not feel pain, warmth or heat when the treatment is given. One may, however, experience skin irritation, redness, and throat/mouth ulcer as a consequence of RT (which might lead to pain).

Myth 2: Radiation Therapy makes Patients Radioactive.

Fact: Radiation therapy does not make patients radioactive. The radiation used in cancer treatment is carefully controlled and targeted to the specific area of the body where it is needed. Once the treatment is complete, patients can lead a normal life around family, friends, kids, and others.

Also, Read - When is Radiotherapy Appropriate in Breast Cancer?

Myth 3: Radiation Therapy Leads to Radiation induced Cancer.

Fact: While it's true that radiation therapy involves exposure to radiation, the risk of developing radiation induced cancers as a result of radiation therapy is generally low. Radiation oncologists carefully calculate and administer radiation doses to minimise damage to healthy tissues while effectively targeting cancer cells. The benefits of radiation therapy in treating cancer often outweigh the potential risks of developing radiation-induced cancer.

Myth 4: All Radiation Therapies are the Same.

Fact: There are various types of radiation therapies, each tailored to specific cancer types and stages. The diverse approaches include external beam radiation,brachytherapy, and stereotactic radiosurgery. Treatment plans are customised to the individual patient's needs, ensuring optimal efficacy with minimal side effects.

Also, Read - Stereotactic Radiotherapy for Brain Tumours!

Myth 5: Radiation Therapy is only for Advanced Cancer.

Fact: Radiation therapy can be employed at various stages of cancer, including early stages. It may be used as a primary treatment or with surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. The decision depends on factors such as cancer type, location, and the overall health of the patient.

Myth 6: Radiation Therapy Causes Complete Hair Loss from the Head or Scalp.

Fact: Patients undergoing radiation therapy specifically to the head may experience partial hair loss on the scalp. However, radiation therapy targeted at other body parts does not result in scalp hair loss. Hair loss typically occurs only in the area receiving radiation. For instance, patients undergoing breast radiation therapy may experience some hair loss in the armpit area, while male patients receiving radiation therapy may lose facial, beard, or moustache hair.

Myth 7: Radiation Therapy Causes Nausea and Vomiting.

Fact: Radiation therapy alone does not typically induce nausea or vomiting, unless it is administered concurrently with chemotherapy or targeted to the abdominal area. For instance, breast radiation therapy may occasionally cause mild nausea but does not typically result in vomiting.

Myth 8: There is no need or Advantage of Radiation Therapy (RT) after Complete Removal of a Tumour.

Fact: Even after the complete surgical removal of a tumour, residual cancer cells may remain in the operated area, increasing the risk of disease recurrence. Radiation therapy is often administered to reduce or minimise the chances of local disease recurrence. Oncologists carefully assess the risk of local recurrence and the potential benefits of local radiation therapy before advising its use.

Myth 9: After Radiation Therapy (RT), a Person feels Warm and should Consume a lot of Cold Food Items.

Fact: Radiation therapy does not typically cause a sensation of heat or warmth. There is no need to alter dietary habits, and individuals can continue to consume cold food and liquids as they normally would.

Myth 10: Radiation Leads to Skin Burns

Fact: RT does not cause skin burning, but it does lead to redness, darkening, and peeling of skin in the local area being treated. The magnitude of these side effects varies from person to person and also depends on the area being treated. These effects are usually temporary and gradually improve after RT completion.

Also, Read - Treating Specific Cancers With Radiation Oncology

Understanding the realities of radiation therapy is crucial for individuals facing cancer treatment decisions. By dispelling these common myths, we hope to alleviate fears and provide a more accurate portrayal of the role and benefits of radiation therapy in the journey towards cancer recovery.