Radiotherapy is a specialised cancer treatment, it is prescribed by a Consultant Radiation Oncologist and involves the use of radiation beams directly to the site of the cancer.

The aim of treatment is to kill cancer cells before or immediately after they divide. This is why treatments are meticulously planned by experts according to each patients needs.

A stimulator is used before treatments, which allows the site to be measured. Small markings are then drawn on the surface of the skin so that each beam is directed to exactly the same spot each time.

Only cells in the treatment area will be affected by radiation, therefore any normal cells destroyed in the same area need time to recover. This is why treatment is given over a number of days.

Prior to Treatment, a radiotherapy specialist will discuss the effects and possibility of side effects:

• The effects depend largely on the exact site of treatment and how much radiation is given.
• The most common side effects can occur within days of beginning treatment and include, redness of the skin - which can appear and feel like sunburn, tiredness and sickness.