Radiotherapy Treatment for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, but advances in treatment have significantly improved outcomes and quality of life for many patients. One such advancement is radiotherapy, a powerful tool that uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. Whether used to cure, control, or ease symptoms of lung cancer, radiotherapy offers hope for patients at various stages of the disease.

In this blog, we’ll break down how radiotherapy works, the different types available, when it is used, what to expect during treatment, potential side effects, and commonly asked questions.

What Is Radiotherapy and How Does It Work?

Radiotherapy uses precisely targeted radiation to damage the DNA inside cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing. Over time, these cells die and are naturally removed by the body. The surrounding healthy tissues may also be affected, but they typically recover better than cancer cells.

Radiation can be delivered in two main ways:

• Externally, using a machine that directs radiation at the tumor.
• Internally, by placing radioactive material directly inside or near the tumor (a method called brachytherapy).

What Are the Different Types of Radiotherapy for Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer treatment may involve one or more of the following radiotherapy types:

1. External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT)

This is the most commonly used form of radiotherapy. A machine called a linear accelerator directs radiation beams at the tumor from outside the body. Treatment is usually given in daily sessions, five days a week, over several weeks.

2. Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)

SBRT is a more precise form of EBRT. It delivers very high doses of radiation in a few focused treatments (usually 3–5 sessions). It is especially effective for early-stage lung cancer in patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery.

3. Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy (3D-CRT) and Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

Both techniques use advanced imaging to shape the radiation beams to match the tumor’s exact shape. IMRT further modulates the intensity of the radiation to protect nearby healthy tissues such as the heart and esophagus.

4. Proton Therapy

Unlike X-rays used in traditional radiotherapy, proton therapy uses positively charged particles. Protons release most of their energy at a specific depth, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This precision makes it ideal for tumors near critical organs.

5. Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy)

In this method, radioactive seeds or sources are placed directly inside the tumor or airway. Brachytherapy is sometimes used for advanced lung cancer or to relieve symptoms like coughing or airway obstruction.

When Is Radiotherapy Used in Lung Cancer Treatment?

Radiotherapy plays multiple roles depending on the stage and type of lung cancer:

1. Curative Intent

In early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), radiotherapy—especially SBRT—can be a primary treatment option, particularly for patients who can’t undergo surgery.

2. Combined with Chemotherapy

For locally advanced cancers, radiotherapy is often used alongside chemotherapy to enhance effectiveness. This combination is known as chemoradiation.

3. Before or After Surgery

• Neoadjuvant therapy: Used before surgery to shrink the tumor.
• Adjuvant therapy: Used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.

4. Palliative Care

In advanced cases, radiotherapy may be used to relieve symptoms such as pain, coughing, breathing difficulties, or bleeding, improving the patient’s comfort and quality of life.

What Is the Radiotherapy Treatment Process Like?

1. Simulation and Planning

Before starting treatment, you’ll undergo a CT scan to map the tumor and surrounding organs. This process ensures accurate targeting and helps develop a personalized treatment plan.

2. Positioning

During each session, you’ll lie on a treatment table while a machine moves around you, delivering radiation from various angles. Accurate positioning is critical to avoid damaging healthy tissue.

3. Treatment Sessions

• Conventional radiotherapy is delivered daily (Monday through Friday) for several weeks.
• SBRT, on the other hand, is typically completed in 3 to 5 sessions.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Lung Cancer Radiotherapy?

While radiotherapy is targeted, some side effects may still occur. These vary depending on the dose, treatment area, and overall health of the patient.

Common Side Effects Include:

• Fatigue: Often cumulative, increasing over the course of treatment.
• Lung inflammation (radiation pneumonitis): Can cause a dry or wet cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or blood in sputum.
• Skin irritation: Redness or peeling over the treated area.
• Esophagitis: Soreness or difficulty swallowing, especially if the esophagus is exposed to radiation.

Most side effects can be managed with medication, and many subside after treatment ends.

What Are the Benefits of Radiotherapy for Lung Cancer?

• Non-invasive: Especially useful for patients who cannot undergo surgery.
• Precise targeting: Minimizes harm to healthy tissues.
• Versatile: Can be used alone, with chemotherapy, before or after surgery, or for palliative care.
• Shorter regimens available: SBRT allows high-dose treatment in fewer sessions.

Conclusion

Radiotherapy is a vital part of the fight against lung cancer. Whether used as a standalone treatment, in combination with chemotherapy, or as part of palliative care, it offers precision, flexibility, and hope. If you or a loved one is facing lung cancer, consult your oncologist about whether radiotherapy is right for your treatment plan.

FAQs

Q1. Is radiotherapy painful?

A1. No, the radiation itself is painless. You may feel discomfort from lying still or from side effects, but the process of receiving radiation does not hurt.

Q2. Can radiotherapy cure lung cancer?

A2. In early-stage cancers, especially non-small cell lung cancer, radiotherapy—particularly SBRT—can offer a potential cure when surgery is not an option.

Q3. Will I lose my hair during lung cancer radiotherapy?

A3. Not typically. Hair loss only occurs in areas directly treated with radiation. If your head is not in the radiation field, you won’t lose scalp hair.

Q4. How long is each treatment session?

A4. Most sessions take 15 to 30 minutes, including setup time. The actual radiation delivery lasts only a few minutes.

Q5. Can I continue normal activities during treatment?

A5. Many people can maintain normal routines, though fatigue might limit activity as treatment progresses. Your care team can help you manage energy levels.

Q6. Is radiotherapy safe?

A6. Yes. Modern radiotherapy is highly targeted and safe. Long-term risks are minimal compared to the benefits, especially when used appropriately by a skilled medical team.