The Stages of Cancer and Radiation Therapy (Radiotherapy)
Cancer is a serious condition resulting from genetic mutations which the body can no longer regulate. This uncontrolled growth allows the cancerous cells to invade surrounding tissues and spread to lymph nodes through the lymphatic system. They can also enter the bloodstream, allowing cancer to metastasize to distant organs, such as the lungs, liver, bones, and brain.
Cancer can occur anywhere in the body, from the brain to the anus. What is particularly concerning is that cancer remains the leading cause of death worldwide. According to global statistics, it is projected that by the year 2040, there will be 29.9 million new cancer cases, with 15.3 million cancer-related deaths globally.
Cancer: Early Detection, Better Chance of Cure
Although cancer statistics are alarmingly high, the disease can often be treated effectively, and patients can lead long, high-quality lives when detected in its early stages.
Health screening tests are crucial for individuals aged 35 to 50 and above as they can identify cancer at an early stage, improving treatment outcomes. Moreover, early detection reduces treatment costs compared to managing cancer at more advanced stages, where the disease has spread and become more severe.
Cancer treatment involves various approaches depending on the type, location, and disease stages. For example, if cancer is detected at an early stage, surgical removal of the tumor may be the first course of action. However, if cancer has spread to other organs, such as the lymph nodes, treatment may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy (radiotherapy), and surgery.
When Is Radiation Therapy Most Appropriate for Cancer Patients?
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be administered before surgery to shrink the tumor (downstage cancer), making surgical removal feasible. Alternatively, these therapies may be used after surgery if the surgeon is unable to remove the entire tumor or if there is concern about residual cancer cells.
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy aim to prevent cancer from growing. In cases of advanced cancer, such as stage IV, the surgeon may first consider a biopsy for further cancer genomic analysis. The medical team will then collaboratively decide on the next steps, which may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the molecular profile of the cancer cells.
Even in stage IV, radiation therapy may be necessary for palliations in cases where cancer has spread to other organs, such as the brain, liver, lungs, or bones. This treatment can help alleviate symptoms such as pain and bleeding, prevent fractures, or address tumors compressing on nerves, depending on the location of the disease and the specific symptoms in each case.
MedPark Hospital is a premier private healthcare facility in Thailand, featuring a comprehensive cancer center with specialists skilled in advanced diagnostic imaging, including whole-body PET/CT scans, SPECT-CT scans, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds.
Regarding cancer treatment, the hospital boasts a team of specialized medical, hematological, surgical, and radiation oncologists who collaborate to provide the most effective individualized care, ensuring the best possible outcomes and optimal patient benefits.
