Patients are frequently told that Radiation Therapy, and Chemotherapy are effective cancer treatments. Both are highly efficient, but in different ways. They are also recommended based on cancer stage, type and general health. Dr. Pooja Babbar, a Best Medical Oncologist Gurgaon who is also a trusted Cancer Specialist Gurgaon discusses the differences in these two treatments.
What is Chemotherapy?
Using powerful drugs, Chemotherapy works to eliminate cancer cells anywhere in the body. This is a systemic drug treatment that travels through blood and can reach the cancer cells no matter where they are. The way it works: Attacks fast-growing cancerous cells
Best For: Cancers which have spread or are at high risk of spreading (metastatic).
Side effect: Hair Loss, Fatigue, Nausea, Low Immunity.
- How does it work? Targets cancer cells that grow rapidly.
- Best suited for: cancers that are metastatic (or at risk) or have already spread.
- Side effects include: fatigue, nausea, and hair loss.
What is Radiation Therapy?
The Radiation Therapy is a treatment that uses high-energy (like X-rays) rays to destroy cancerous cells. This is a targeted treatment, unlike chemotherapy.
How the treatment works: The DNA of cancer cells is damaged so that they can’t grow.
Best suited for: Localized tumors or post-surgery prevention of recurrence.
Side effects include: Localized swelling, fatigue and skin irritation.
Key Differences Between Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy
| Feature | Chemotherapy | Radiation Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Systemic (whole-body) | Localized (specific areas) |
| Modality of Action | Uses drugs to kill rapidly-growing cells | Cancer cells are damaged by high-energy radiation |
| Best For | Multiple or spreading cancers | Tumors localized to specific regions or areas |
| Side Effects | Hair loss, nausea, fatigue | Skin changes, fatigue or swelling in treated areas |
Which is Better for You?
The following factors will determine whether you choose Chemotherapy or Radiation Treatment:
- Type of cancer
- Stages of Disease
- Health condition of the patient
- Treatment goals
Dr. Pooja is a top medical oncologist Gurgaon who personalizes every treatment plan by putting the patient first.
Why Choose Dr. Pooja Babbar?
- Expertise with chemotherapy, radiation therapy coordination, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
- Compassionate care in advanced cancer management.
- As a leading specialist in Gurgaon.
Address: Fortis Hospital, Plot No. 2, Sector 5, IMT Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana 122052
