Understanding Radiotherapy in Malaysia

Radiotherapy is one of the most widely used treatments for cancer. It involves the use of high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells while minimising damage to healthy tissues. In Malaysia, advanced radiotherapy services are readily available, offering hope and improved outcomes for patients battling cancer. At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), our state-of-the-art technologies and expert care ensure that patients receive the best possible treatment for their condition.

What is Radiotherapy and How Does It Work?

Radiotherapy, also referred to as radiation therapy, is a non-invasive cancer treatment that uses focused beams of radiation to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which impairs their ability to reproduce. Healthy tissues surrounding the treatment area are carefully spared with advanced techniques to reduce side effects. Radiotherapy is often used as part of a comprehensive cancer treatment plan. It may be combined with surgery to remove tumours or with chemotherapy to enhance its effectiveness. In some cases, radiotherapy is used as a standalone treatment to manage cancer effectively.

Purpose of Radiation Therapy

The goals of radiation therapy vary depending on the type and stage of cancer. Key purposes include: 

  • Shrinking Tumours: Radiotherapy is effective in reducing the size of tumours before surgery or other treatments. 
  • Alleviating Symptoms: In advanced cases, it can relieve symptoms such as pain and discomfort caused by tumours. 
  • Eradicating Cancer Cells: For localised cancers, radiotherapy aims to destroy cancer cells and prevent recurrence. 

Radiotherapy is used to treat a wide range of cancers, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, and head-and-neck cancers. Additionally, it plays a vital role in palliative care, improving the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer.

Radiotherapy Treatment Process

Radiotherapy treatment is a highly personalised process designed to achieve the best outcomes for each patient. At Subang Jaya Medical Centre, we offer advanced techniques such as: 

  • Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) IGRT enables our clinical team to visualise a tumour’s position before and during treatment, which is especially important when treating the chest or abdomen, areas in which the tumour may move when the patient breathes. IGRT use advanced imaging techniques and motion management technology to verify the exact position of the tumour at the moment of treatment. 
  • Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) SJMC utilizes IMRT to allow our doctors to tailor radiation beams precisely. By adjusting intensity and shaping the beam to match the tumour, doctors deliver a high dose directly to the target while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue.
  • Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) IORT is a high dose of radiation that is given during surgery, to the area where the cancer was removed. IORT does as little damage as possible to normal tissue around where the tumour used to be. At SJMC, IORT is used in breast cancer treatment. IORT targets only the tissue surrounding the tumour after it has been removed. 
  • High Dose Rate Brachytherapy Brachytherapy offers a powerful option in the fight against cancer. Unlike traditional radiation therapy that uses external beams, brachytherapy delivers a high dose of radiation directly to the tumour through tiny radioactive implants. These implants, often the size of a grain of rice, can be seeds, ribbons, or capsules placed strategically within or near the tumour. In SJMC, brachytherapy is used in treatments of gynaecological cancers, such as cervical, uterine and vaginal cancers. 
  • Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) SBRT is a precise, high-dose radiation treatment for small tumours. It's commonly used for cancers like prostate, lung, and kidney, and can even target tumours that have spread to other areas (oligometastatic disease). SBRT's minimally invasive approach can be an alternative to surgery, avoiding hospitalization and recovery time. In SJMC, Patients usually undergo between one and five SBRT sessions following the planning process. It is either once a day or once every other day. The average session lasts approximately one hour. 
  • Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) SRS delivers precise, high-dose radiation using multiple focused gamma rays in a single treatment. Despite its name, SRS is non-invasive, requiring no incisions or anaesthesia, with beams as precise as a scalpel. At SJMC, SRS effectively treats head and neck tumours, including inoperable areas, benign tumours, previously treated sites, and conditions like arteriovenous malformations.

Steps in a Typical Radiotherapy Treatment Plan:

1. Initial Consultation and Diagnosis: Patients undergo a thorough evaluation, which includes diagnostic imaging such as CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans. These imaging tools are critical in determining the exact location and size of the tumour to ensure precision in treatment planning. Learn more about our Radiology Services. 

2. Treatment Planning: Oncologists use advanced software to create a tailored plan that precisely targets cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues. 

3. Regular Treatment Sessions: Radiotherapy is delivered over multiple sessions, depending on the patient's condition. Progress is closely monitored to ensure the treatment is effective. Personalised care and advanced diagnostic tools play a critical role in ensuring accurate and effective radiotherapy treatment at SJMC.

Safety and Side Effects of Radiotherapy

While radiotherapy is a safe and proven treatment, patients may experience some side effects. Common side effects include: 

  • Skin Irritation: Redness or dryness in the treatment area. 
  • Fatigue: A common side effect due to the body’s healing process. 
  • Localised Discomfort: Pain or swelling near the treated area. 

At SJMC, we prioritise patient safety by using advanced technologies and rigorous safety protocols. These measures ensure precise delivery of radiation, minimising risks to surrounding healthy tissues.

Tips for Managing Side Effects:

  • Stay hydrated and maintain a nutritious diet. 
  • Follow your doctor’s recommendations for skincare. 
  • Rest adequately and avoid strenuous activities during treatment. 

Our team of clinical oncologists and healthcare professionals provides comprehensive post-treatment care to help patients recover smoothly and manage any side effects effectively.

Empower Your Journey to Better Health with Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy offers a powerful tool in the fight against cancer. With advancements in technology and personalised care, patients in Malaysia can access world-class radiotherapy services. At Subang Jaya Medical Centre, we are committed to empowering patients with expert guidance and support throughout their treatment journey. 

If you or your loved ones are considering radiotherapy, consult with our specialists to explore the best options for your condition. Early treatment leads to better outcomes, so take the first step toward better health by reaching out to SJMC today.