The Role of Radiation Therapy in the Treatment of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally.Early dignosis and effective treatment are crucial in improving patient outcome. Radiation therapy is essential  treatment option for lung cancer and has been shown to be very effective in completely removing, reducing the size of tumors, relieving symptoms, and improving the quality of life of patients. Here we are exploring the role of radiation therapy in treatment of lung cancer and its potential benefits and side effects.

Types of Radiation Therapy for Lung Cancer

There are two main types of radiation therapy used to treat lung cancer: steriotactic radiation radiation therapy  –  in single sitting or 3 to 5 sittings and long course Radiation treatment -by IMRT, IGRT or VMAT usually in 30 to 35 sittings.

Radiation is delivery of high-energy photon beams of radiation from a machine to cancerous tissue.For treatment  Patient has to come daily for 5 days in a week. In this process first day we make a cusyomized mask of the patient for immobilisation .

Steriotactic radiation is  used for very small tumors where we give very high dose in single or in few sittings and avoid the morbidity of surgery.

Patients who are not candidates for surgery are treated by combination Radio therapy and chemotherapy  to enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment.

Radiation therapy for lung cancer  has its potential side effects. Some of the most common side effects of radiation therapy include:

• Fatigue: Radiation therapy can cause fatigue that can last for several weeks after treatment.

• Skin Irritation: The skin in the treatment area can become red, dry, and itchy, and may develop a sunburn-like appearance.

• Breathing Difficulties: Radiation therapy can cause shortness of breath and coughing( radiation pneumonitis)  especially in patients with big tumors.

• Nausea: Radiation therapy can cause nausea, which may be relieved with medication.

It is important to talk to your doctor about the potential side effects of radiation therapy and how to manage them.

Conclusion

It  is essential to have an open and honest conversation with your doctor about the benefits and risks of  treatment. Radiation therapy is a one of the combined modality treatment for lung cancer and has been shown to be  very effective in curing the disease, relieving symptoms, and improving the quality of life for patients.