Radiation oncology uses powerful energy particles to kill cancer cells inside the body. Radiation is often used in addition to surgery and chemotherapy, depending on the type of cancer being treated and your personalized treatment plan.
Radiation treatment is noninvasive and while the treatment itself does not cause pain, its side effects can. Many patients have mild side effects compared to other cancer treatments. If you experience worse side effects and need relief, medications are available that can help.
Proton therapy is an advanced type of radiation therapy that directly targets a tumor. This type of treatment offers more precise treatment doses and fewer side effects.
Our proton therapy center was the first hospital-based treatment center in the world to offer proton therapy and has been a leader in proton therapy research and treatment for over 20 years.
After an initial consult, diagnosis, and confirmed treatment plan, you have the opportunity to undergo a radiation simulation. These trial runs help manage your expectations and alleviate any uncertainties or fears. Then, you complete the set number of radiation sessions as outlined in your customized plan. The majority of radiation session plans last four to five weeks.
When you are diagnosed with cancer, you want treatment from an expert team you can trust. You may be referred to the Loma Linda University Cancer Center by your primary care physician or an emergency department. For more information, please call 1-800-78-CANCER (800-782-2623).
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