What does the term 'radiation therapy' refer to?

Radiation therapy specifically refers to the use of high doses of radiation to destroy cancer cells. This approach is designed to target rapidly dividing cells, which is characteristic of cancer. The mechanism involves damaging the DNA of the cancer cells, leading to cell death or the inability of the cells to grow and divide. Radiation therapy can be administered externally through machines that direct radiation at the tumor, or internally through the placement of radioactive materials close to or within the tumor.

While other treatment options and diagnostic methods also involve radiation, such as using X-rays for imaging or utilizing low doses for pain relief, these do not fall under the definition of radiation therapy as it applies specifically to the treatment of cancer using high doses with the primary aim of eradicating malignant cells. Therefore, the correct understanding of radiation therapy focuses on its role and effectiveness in cancer treatment.