Overview
Radiation therapy is sometimes called radiotherapy. It uses a controlled dose of radiation to kill or damage cancer cells. This is a common treatment for cancer.
The radiation can be delivered to the body in different ways. When delivered from outside the body, it is called with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). When delivered inside the body, it is called brachytherapy.
You may have radiation therapy on its own, or with other treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy.
A cancer diagnosis can be a shock. Find helpful information in Just diagnosed, or call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20 to talk it through with our qualified professionals.
Key questions
About radiation therapy
Read about how radiation therapy works, when it is given, and who you will see for treatment.
Common questions about radiation therapy
Radiation therapy may be given in a single treatment or over several days or weeks. Find out more about what to expect from treatment.
Questions to ask your doctor
It can be a good idea to prepare a list of questions before your appointments. See our list of questions about radiation therapy.
Key steps
Preparing for radiation therapy
Learn how to prepare for radiation therapy, with practical advice on healthy living and important considerations around fertility or pregnancy.
External beam radiation therapy (EBRT)
Understand how external beam radiation therapy is given from outside the body using a large machine. It targets tumours precisely using high-energy radiation beams.
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy is form of internal radiation therapy. Learn who can have this treatment, how it works, and how it is planned and given.
Managing side effects
Learn how to cope with common side effects of radiation therapy, such as fatigue, skin changes, mouth and throat problems and bladder and bowel changes.
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