Radiation therapy is a highly effective cancer treatment in Malaysia that has been helping patients fight against this deadly disease for many years. With its advanced technology and skilled medical professionals, Malaysia has become a hub for radiation therapy, offering top-notch treatment options for cancer patients from all around the world.
What is Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a common and highly effective treatment for cancer. It uses high-energy radiation to target and kill cancer cells in the body. This therapy can be used to treat various types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and many others.
When a patient undergoes radiation therapy, they are exposed to carefully controlled doses of radiation. This radiation is delivered using special machines that emit beams of high-energy particles, such as X-rays or protons. The beams are directed at the specific body area where the cancer is located.
One of the key advantages of radiation therapy is its ability to target cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells. The radiation damages the DNA of the cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. Over time, the damaged cancer cells die off, reducing the size of the tumor or eliminating it completely.
Before starting radiation therapy, a team of healthcare professionals, including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapists, carefully plan the treatment. They use advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scans or MRI, to precisely locate the tumor and determine the optimal radiation dose and treatment schedule.
During the treatment sessions, the patient lies on a treatment table while the radiation machine is positioned to deliver the radiation beams. The treatment itself is painless and usually takes only a few minutes. However, the entire treatment course may span over several weeks, with daily or weekly sessions depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Radiation therapy can be used as the primary treatment for cancer, or it may be combined with other treatment modalities, such as surgery or chemotherapy. In some cases, radiation therapy is used before surgery to shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove. In other cases, it is used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
How Does Radiation Therapy Work?
Radiation therapy is a highly effective treatment method for cancer that works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. This targeted approach helps to destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells surrounding the tumor.
There are two main types of radiation therapy: external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and internal radiation therapy, also known as brachytherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the type and location of the cancer.
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
During external beam radiation therapy, a machine positioned outside the body directs high-energy radiation beams precisely to the cancer site. This non-invasive approach allows for accurate targeting of the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. The radiation oncologist carefully plans the treatment, taking into account the size, shape, and location of the tumor and the patient’s overall health.
The radiation therapy machine, known as a linear accelerator, delivers the radiation in multiple sessions called fractions. Each session lasts only a few minutes, and the treatment is typically administered five days a week for several weeks. This fractionated approach helps maximize the treatment’s effectiveness while allowing healthy cells to recover between sessions.
During the treatment, the patient lies on a treatment table, and the linear accelerator moves around them, delivering radiation beams from different angles. Special immobilization devices may be used to ensure precise positioning and minimize movement during the treatment. The radiation therapist monitors the patient throughout the session, ensuring the treatment is delivered accurately and safely.
Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy)
Internal radiation therapy, or brachytherapy, involves the placement of radioactive sources directly inside the body, near the tumor. This approach allows for a higher dose of radiation to be delivered directly to the cancer cells while reducing exposure to healthy tissues.
There are two main types of brachytherapy: temporary and permanent. In temporary brachytherapy, small radioactive sources are inserted into the body for a specific period and removed. This can be done using various techniques, such as intracavitary brachytherapy (placing the sources in a body cavity) or interstitial brachytherapy (placing the sources directly into the tissue).
On the other hand, permanent brachytherapy involves the implantation of small radioactive seeds or pellets that remain in the body permanently. Over time, the radiation from these seeds gradually diminishes, providing a continuous low dose of radiation to the tumor.
Brachytherapy is often used for cancers in or near sensitive organs, such as the prostate, cervix, or breast. It offers the advantage of delivering a high radiation dose directly to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Benefits of Radiation Therapy
- Highly targeted treatment specifically focused on cancer cells.
- Non-invasive procedure, meaning no surgical incisions are required.
- Pain-free treatment with minimal side effects.
- Short treatment sessions, allowing patients to continue their daily activities.
- High success rates in controlling or eliminating cancer.
Risks of Radiation Therapy
- Fatigue and tiredness.
- Skin problems, such as redness, rash, and dryness.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Damage to healthy cells near the treatment area.
- Potential long-term effects, depending on the location and type of cancer.
Types of Radiation Therapy in Malaysia
Malaysia offers a wide range of radiation therapy options to cater to the diverse needs of cancer patients. The two main types of radiation therapy available in Malaysia are external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy).
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)
EBRT is the most common type of radiation therapy used in Malaysia. It delivers high-energy rays from a machine directly to the cancer site. The treatment is painless and precisely targets the cancer cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissues. The duration and frequency of EBRT sessions depend on the type and stage of cancer, as determined by the oncologist.
Internal Radiation Therapy
Internal radiation therapy, or brachytherapy, involves placing radioactive sources directly into or near the tumor. These sources emit radiation that kills cancer cells over time. This method allows for highly targeted treatment and reduces the impact on surrounding healthy tissues. The duration of internal radiation therapy varies depending on the type and stage of cancer.
How Much Does Radiation Therapy Cost in Malaysia?
The cost of radiation therapy in Malaysia varies depending on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the treatment duration, and the facility. On average, radiation therapy costs in Malaysia can range from RM10,000 to RM100,000 or more. It is important to consult with a medical professional or contact the clinic directly to get accurate cost information and discuss payment options.
How To Prepare for Radiation Therapy?
Preparing for radiation therapy requires proper communication with your healthcare team. They will guide you through the entire process and provide necessary instructions. It is important to inform them about your medical history, previous treatments, and any medications or supplements you take. They may advise you to follow a specific diet or temporarily stop certain medications.
Additionally, it is crucial to mentally and emotionally prepare for radiation therapy. It is normal to feel anxious or stressed, but remember that you are not alone. Seek support from family, friends, or support groups to help navigate through this challenging journey.
Contact With Revine Clinic To Learn More About Radiation Therapy For Cancer Treatment in Malaysia!
To learn more about radiation therapy for cancer treatment in Malaysia or to inquire about specific treatment options and costs, contact Revine Clinic. Their team of highly experienced oncologists and radiation therapists will provide you with the necessary information and guide you through every step of your cancer treatment journey.
FAQs
What to expect during radiation therapy?
During radiation therapy, patients can expect to undergo painless treatment sessions that deliver high-energy radiation specifically to the cancer site, while experiencing minimal side effects.
What types of cancer can be treated with radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy can be used to treat a wide range of cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and many others.
What to expect after radiation therapy?
After radiation therapy, patients may experience fatigue, skin problems, and potential long-term effects depending on the location and type of cancer.