What is the Difference Between Chemo and Radiation?

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are both treatments for cancer, but they work differently and have distinct side effects. Here are the main differences between the two:

1. Delivery method: Chemotherapy is a medication delivered through an infusion into a vein or medication port, or taken orally. Radiation therapy, on the other hand, uses high-energy beams (like X-rays or proton therapy) focused on a specific area in the body to target and kill cancer cells.
2. Targeting: Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that targets cancer cells throughout the body. Radiation therapy is a local treatment that focuses on a specific area of the body where the cancer is located.
3. Side effects: Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy can damage healthy cells, causing side effects. However, radiation therapy tends to have more localized side effects due to its targeted nature, while chemotherapy side effects can be more widespread since it is systemic.
4. Goals: Both therapies share the same goals: to cure cancer by eliminating all cancer cells and preventing the cancer from coming back, to control cancer by keeping it from spreading or growing, and to relieve symptoms caused by the cancer.
5. Types of cancer treated: The type of therapy prescribed depends on the type and stage of cancer. Some cancers may require both chemotherapy and radiation therapy, or additional treatments like surgery.

In summary, chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that uses medications to kill cancer cells, while radiation therapy is a local treatment that uses high-energy beams to target and kill cancer cells in a specific area of the body. The choice between the two depends on the type and stage of cancer and the patient's overall health status.

Comparative Table: Chemo vs Radiation

Here is a table comparing the differences between chemotherapy and radiation therapy:

Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy are used to treat cancer, a disease in which abnormal cells divide uncontrollably and can spread to surrounding tissue. They can be prescribed individually, concurrently, or with surgery.