The prostate is a small gland that is located just behind the penis. It makes up the liquid part of semen. Sometimes the cells of the prostate begin to grow uncontrollably, causing prostate cancer to develop. It can be treated using radiation.
Purpose
External beam radiation therapy is commonly used as a first-line treatment for prostate cancer.
Mechanism
External beam radiation therapy works by shooting high energy X-ray beams at the prostate. These X-ray beams damage the cancer cells' DNA, causing them to die.
Device
External beam radiation therapy is typically delivered using either cobalt machines or linear accelerators. Both machines generate X-ray beams, but linear accelerators are more commonly used to treat prostate cancer.
Procedure
During the therapy session, the machine will have been pre-programmed to direct the radiation in order to deliver as much radiation as possible directly to the cancer cells. The procedure is painless, though you may hear a buzzing sound.
Side Effects
Radiation treatment for prostate cancer can cause fatigue, diarrhea, painful urination, skin redness and, in some cases, impotence.
