
external beam radiation therapy
External beam radiation therapy is a treatment that uses precisely targeted high-energy rays, like x-rays or protons, directed from a machine outside the body to destroy cancer cells. The goal is to damage the DNA of these cells, preventing them from growing or spreading. The procedure is usually done in multiple sessions over several days or weeks, with careful planning to focus on the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. It’s a common and effective approach for managing various types of cancer, helping to shrink tumors or eliminate cancer cells.