Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. It can also affect healthy cells nearby and cause side effects that depend on:

• What type of radiation therapy is done

• What part of your body receives the radiation

• How long your treatment lasts

Getting support

You are not facing cancer treatment alone. Keep a list of any questions you have for your radiation therapy team. Ask these questions during your visits. Call your team if you need to. 

You can also get help from:

• Family members

• Friends

• Support groups (in person or online)

• Counseling

• Social workers, case managers, or navigators

Talk with your healthcare team if you need a referral to counseling.

Cancer resources

To learn more about cancer and to find support groups, contact the resources below:

• American Cancer Society at ww.cancer.org or 800-227-2345

• National Cancer Institute at ww.cancer.gov or 800-422-6237

• American Society for Radiation Oncology at www.rtanswers.org or 703-502-1550

• American Society of Clinical Oncology at www.cancer.net or 888-651-3038