Radiotherapy (commonly known as radiation therapy) uses high‑energy radiation (such as X‑rays) to precisely damage the DNA of cancer cells, thereby inhibiting tumour growth, shrinking tumour size, or completely eliminating cancer cells.

Through advanced imaging and dose‑modulation technologies, clinical oncologists can deliver the highest possible therapeutic dose to the tumour while maximising protection of surrounding healthy organs and tissues. Even if normal cells are exposed to small amounts of radiation, they generally retain the ability to repair themselves, allowing a balance between safety and treatment effectiveness.Radiotherapy is usually painless and may be used as a standalone treatment or combined with surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy as part of a personalised cancer treatment plan.

For different cancer types, sizes, and locations, various advanced radiotherapy technologies have been developed to achieve optimal clinical outcomes:

• External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT): The most common form of radiotherapy. High‑energy X‑rays are delivered from outside the body using an advanced linear accelerator to precisely target malignant tumours.
• Intensity‑Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): An advanced form of EBRT. By adjusting the intensity of radiation beams, IMRT provides precise dose coverage for irregularly shaped tumours while reducing radiation exposure to nearby critical organs.
• Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT): The treatment machine rotates around the patient while continuously delivering radiation. This enables highly precise treatment within a very short time, significantly reducing treatment duration and improving patient comfort.
• Image‑Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): Real‑time medical imaging (such as CT scans) is used before each treatment session to accurately locate the tumour. This is particularly important for organs that move with breathing, such as the lungs and liver, ensuring precise radiation delivery.
• Surface‑Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT): Also known as marker‑free radiotherapy. Advanced optical imaging technology monitors the patient's three‑dimensional body surface during treatment. If even slight movement is detected, treatment is automatically paused to ensure maximum accuracy and safety.
• Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH): An innovative technique designed specifically for patients with left‑sided breast cancer. By taking a deep breath and holding it, the lungs expand and move the heart away from the treatment area, significantly reducing long‑term radiation exposure to the heart.
• Brachytherapy: Small radioactive sources are placed directly inside or near the tumour (commonly used for cervical cancer or prostate cancer), delivering high‑dose radiation to the target while minimising exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

To ensure radiation precisely targets the tumour, a detailed simulation and planning process is required before treatment begins:

• Creation of personalised immobilisation devices: Depending on the treatment area, the team may create a customised mask (e.g. for head and neck cancer) or body support device to ensure the same position is maintained during every treatment session.
• CT simulation and positioning marks: A CT scan is performed to obtain up‑to‑date three‑dimensional images. Radiation therapists will place small positioning marks on your skin. During the treatment course, these marks should not be removed or rubbed off. When bathing, gently rinse the area with water only.

Radiotherapy side effects are generally limited to the area being treated.

Part 1: Common Expected Side Effects

During treatment, patients may experience the following temporary reactions:

• Skin reactions in the treatment area: Treated skin may become red, dry, itchy, or mildly flaky, similar to a mild sunburn.
• Fatigue: This is the most common systemic side effect. Patients may feel increasingly tired as treatment progresses.
• Local organ‑related discomfort: Symptoms depend on the treatment area. For example, treatment to the abdomen or gastrointestinal tract may cause mild nausea, while pelvic radiotherapy may lead to increased urinary frequency.

Part 2: Medical Intervention and Home Care

To minimise the impact of treatment on daily life, OncoCare provides both medical support and self‑care guidance.

Skin Care

• Medical Intervention: Doctors will closely monitor skin condition. Anti‑inflammatory creams or non‑irritating moisturisers may be prescribed if necessary to prevent inflammation and infection.
• Home Care: Wear loose‑fitting cotton clothing to reduce friction. Use lukewarm water (avoid excessively hot water) and gentle body wash when bathing. Protect treated skin from sun exposure by using umbrellas or protective clothing when outdoors.

Fatigue Management

• Medical Intervention: The nursing team will provide nutritional guidance and monitor physical condition and blood test results.
• Home Care: Light exercise such as walking may help reduce fatigue. When tired, allow yourself short naps (20–30 minutes) while maintaining a balance between rest and activity.

Relief of Localised Discomfort

• Medical Intervention: If nausea or urinary symptoms are expected, doctors may prescribe effective anti‑nausea medication or other symptom‑relief treatments in advance.
• Home Care: Maintain adequate hydration. Choose soft foods at room temperature. Patients receiving pelvic radiotherapy should drink plenty of water to help flush the bladder and reduce infection risk.

At OncoCare, every radiotherapy plan is designed by experienced clinical oncologists according to each patient’s condition and physical health status. We are committed to providing precise and safe cancer care in a comfortable and highly private environment, ensuring a personalised treatment experience throughout your cancer journey.