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Radiation Therapy for Cervical Cancer

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Radiation Therapy for Cervical Cancer

Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to destroy cancer cells. The doctor will make a treatment plan for the patient. The goal is to try to destroy as much cancer as possible. It is also to reduce harm to healthy tissue. Radiation therapy may be used with other treatments.

Radiation of a Tumor.

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There are different types of radiation therapy. External beam and brachytherapy are the most common ones for cervical cancer.

External Beam Radiation

Radiation is produced by a machine outside the body. Short bursts of x-rays are aimed at the cancer. In general, radiation therapy is given 5 days per week for 5 to 6 weeks.

References

  • Cervical cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/cervical-cancer. Accessed April 19, 2021.
  • Cervical cancer. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/gynecologic-tumors/cervical-cancer. Accessed April 20, 2021.
  • Chemotherapy for cervical cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/treating/chemotherapy.html. Accessed April 20, 2021.
  • Hu Z, Ma D. The precision prevention and therapy of HPV-related cervical cancer: new concepts and clinical implications. Cancer Med. 2018 Oct;7(10):5217-5236.
  • Radiation therapy for cervical cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cervical-cancer/treating/radiation.html. Accessed April 20, 2021.
  • Treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical/patient/cervical-treatment-pdq#section/_180. Accessed April 20, 2021.

Contributors

  • Mohei Abouzied, MD, FACP
Last Updated:
2021-03-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.