The goals of radiation therapy can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. The main goals include:
- Curative Intent: To eliminate cancer and achieve a cure.
- Control: To shrink tumors, slow the growth of cancer cells, and control the spread of the disease.
- Palliation: To relieve symptoms and improve quality of life in advanced or metastatic cancer.
- Adjuvant Therapy: To kill any remaining cancer cells after surgery or chemotherapy.
- Neoadjuvant Therapy: To shrink tumors before surgery or chemotherapy, making them easier to remove or treat.