Radiation Therapy (Radiotherapy)

Radiation Therapy, also known as Radiotherapy, is one of the most commonly used and effective cancer treatment methods in Bangladesh. It uses high-energy rays such as X-rays, gamma rays, or electron beams to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Radiotherapy is available in most major cancer hospitals and oncology centers across Bangladesh, using both advanced linear accelerators (LINAC) and modern treatment planning systems to ensure targeted and safe cancer treatment.

What Is Radiation Therapy?

• Radiation therapy uses controlled doses of radiation to:
• Destroy cancer cells
• Stop cancer cells from growing
• Reduce pain or symptoms in advanced cancer (palliative care)

It can be given alone or combined with:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy

Types of Radiation Therapy Available in Bangladesh

1. External Beam Radiotherapy (EBRT)

This is the most widely used method in Bangladesh. High-energy beams are directed at the tumor from outside the body.

Common EBRT techniques:

3D Conformal Radiotherapy (3D-CRT)

Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT)

Image-Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT)

Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT)

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)

Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)

2. Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation)

A radioactive material is placed inside or near the tumor.

• Commonly used for:
• Cervical cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Breast cancer
• Head & neck cancers

3. Palliative Radiotherapy

Used to reduce symptoms such as:

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Breathing difficulty
• Bone fractures from cancer spread

Which Cancers Are Commonly Treated with Radiotherapy?

In Bangladesh, radiotherapy is commonly used for:

• Breast cancer
• Cervical cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Lung cancer
• Head & neck cancers
• Brain tumors
• Rectal cancer
• Lymphoma
• Bone metastasis