How do radiation therapies work in treating gynecologic cancers?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy particles or waves, such as X-rays, gamma rays, or proton beams, to destroy cancer cells. The physics behind this involves ionizing radiation damaging the DNA within cancer cells, inhibiting their ability to reproduce. This method is used in treating various gynecologic cancers, including cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancers. Advanced techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) allow for precise targeting of tumors while sparing surrounding healthy tissues.