You've been told you have cancer. You've looked at your treatment options and you and your doctor have agreed that radiation therapy is your best choice. Now you may have many questions about your treatment:

• What will radiation treatment be like?
• Will it hurt?
• How long will treatment take?
• Will I have to stay in a hospital?
• How much will it cost?

The American Cancer Society knows you may have concerns about radiation therapy, and we have answers to some of your questions. Remember that, along with reading about your treatment, you can also count on your doctor and nurse to answer your questions.

At the end of this document you will find a glossary that defines words and terms used by your health care team. The words that are in italics the first time they are used are also in the glossary. You can use the glossary to help you better understand the talks you have with your health care team. Open and honest talks with your cancer care team are the best way to understand what is happening during your treatment.

Questions About Radiation Therapy

 External Radiation Therapy

Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachyterapy)

Systemic Radiation

Preventing and Managing Common Side Effects

Managing Side Effects of Treatment to Certain Parts of the Body

Follow-up Care

Glossary of Radiation Therapy Terms

Additional Resources

References

Last Medical Review: 12/23/2008
Last Revised: 12/23/2008