What is Radiotherapy?
Radiotherapy is a highly effective cancer treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill or shrink cancer cells. It targets specific cancerous areas while minimizing damage to healthy surrounding tissues. It can be used alone or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. There are various types of radiotherapy, each tailored to the patient’s needs and cancer type.
Types of Radiotherapy:
- External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT): The most common form involves radiation being directed from outside the body to the tumor using a machine called a linear accelerator.
- Brachytherapy (Internal Radiotherapy): Radioactive material is placed directly inside or very close to the tumor, allowing for precise targeting of cancer cells.
- Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRT) and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): These advanced techniques deliver high doses of radiation to a tumor with extreme precision, ideal for tumors located in hard-to-reach areas.
- Proton Therapy: A type of particle therapy that uses protons instead of X-rays to treat cancer, offering highly accurate results with less damage to surrounding tissues.
How is Radiation Therapy Done?
Radiation therapy is usually done in a special treatment room with specialized machines such as linear accelerators. The following are the steps involved in it.
- Consultation and Planning: A radiation oncologist or a medical oncologist will first consult your condition, perform required tests, and draw up an individualized treatment plan.
- Simulation: The patient is placed on the treatment table, and imaging methods (CT or MRI scans) are employed to determine the precise location of the tumor.
- Treatment Sessions: Radiation is administered in small, accurate doses over a series of sessions, depending on the stage and type of cancer. Each session is usually 10 to 30 minutes long.
- Post-Treatment Care: After every session, the patients are observed for any short-term side effects. Follow-up visits confirm that the treatment is going according to schedule.
What Types of Cancer Are Treated with Radiation Therapy?
Radiation therapy is a prevalent treatment modality for various cancer types. It employs high-energy radiation to target and eradicate cancer cells while aiming to preserve the integrity of surrounding healthy tissues. This potent treatment can be administered independently or in conjunction with other therapies, such as surgery and chemotherapy. Below are the most frequently treated cancers with radiation therapy:
- Breast Cancer: Radiation is typically applied following breast-conserving surgery to eliminate any residual cancer cells and lower the likelihood of recurrence.
- Lung Cancer: In cases of both non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), radiation therapy may be utilized to reduce tumor size prior to surgery or to relieve symptoms in advanced stages.
- Prostate Cancer: Radiation therapy is a standard treatment for prostate cancer, serving either as a primary intervention or as a follow-up to surgery to prevent recurrence.
- Brain Tumors: This therapy is frequently employed to address primary brain tumors, such as gliomas, as well as metastatic brain tumors, to reduce tumor size and alleviate associated symptoms.
- Head and Neck Cancer: Cancers affecting the oral cavity, throat, and sinuses are often treated with radiation, either in conjunction with surgery or chemotherapy.
- Cervical Cancer: Radiation therapy is commonly used in the management of cervical cancer, particularly in locally advanced cases, often in combination with chemotherapy.
- Lymphomas (Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s): Radiation therapy is crucial in the treatment of various lymphoma types, especially when the disease is localized.
- Esophageal and Stomach Cancer: Radiation is utilized to reduce tumor size and relieve symptoms, particularly in advanced cases where surgical options are limited.
- Bladder Cancer: This therapy can be employed to treat localized bladder cancer or to manage symptoms in more advanced stages of the disease.
- Rectal and Colorectal Cancer: Radiation therapy is frequently administered before or after surgery, especially for rectal cancer, to reduce tumor size or eliminate any remaining cancerous cells.
- Rectal and Colorectal Cancer: Radiation therapy is frequently employed either prior to or following surgical procedures, especially in the case of rectal cancer, to reduce tumor size or eradicate any remaining cancerous cells.
- Skin Cancer: Non-melanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, can be successfully managed with radiation therapy when surgical intervention is not feasible.
- Sarcomas: In the treatment of soft tissue and bone sarcomas, radiation therapy may be utilized to decrease tumor size or address cancer that is inoperable.
Pancreatic Cancer: Although it is less prevalent, radiation therapy can be applied in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, usually in conjunction with chemotherapy to control the disease or relieve symptoms.
Why Choose India for Radiation Therapy for Cancer
India is recognized as one of the leading destinations for Radiation Therapy treatment, offering state-of-the-art technology, expert oncologists, and affordable healthcare services. Renowned hospitals across the country are equipped with the latest radiation therapy machines, including linear accelerators, cyberknife, proton therapy systems, and more.
How to Travel to India for Radiation Therapy:
- Visa & Travel Arrangements:
International patients can easily travel to India with a Medical Visa. Ensure you have all necessary documentation in place, such as a referral letter from your doctor, passport, and visa application. Many hospitals also provide assistance with visa processing.
- Flight & Accommodation:
Major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore are well-connected to international airports. Most hospitals offer patient accommodation services or can help you find suitable lodging near the hospital.
- Treatment & Aftercare:
Once in India, your doctor will evaluate your condition and customize a treatment plan for you. Indian hospitals often have international patient coordinators who will assist with your treatment journey, from consultations to post-treatment care.
- Affordable Healthcare:
Radiation Therapy in India is significantly more affordable compared to Western countries, making it a popular choice for medical tourism. The quality of care is comparable to global standards but at a fraction of the cost.
Best Radiation Therapy in India
Radiation Therapy in India provides access to world-class treatment, skilled medical professionals, and advanced technology at affordable prices. Whether you’re seeking advanced external beam therapy or specialized treatments like proton therapy, India offers an array of options that cater to every patient’s needs.
Lowest Radiation Therapy Cost in India For Cancer Surgery
The cost of Radiation Therapy in India is a vital consideration for cancer patients who want to receive quality treatment at relatively low prices. Get the list of the top 10 hospitals that offer the best radiotherapy treatment in India without compromising on the quality of care. Metropolitan cities such as Ahmedabad, Delhi (NCR), Bangalore, Chennai, Gurgaon, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Faridabad have some of the finest hospitals and clinics that offer state-of-the-art radiotherapy treatment. The cost of radiation therapy is subject to change based on the nature of the cancer, the treatment protocol, and the duration of the therapy, but the patients can rest assured of receiving world-class treatment from experienced personnel at a much more affordable cost than in many other nations.
Leading Hospitals for Radiation Therapy in India
Experienced Doctors for Radiation Therapy in India