What is the primary purpose of radiation therapy?

The primary purpose of radiation therapy is to treat cancer. This treatment modality uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth by damaging their DNA. It is particularly effective in targeting localized tumors and can be employed either as a primary treatment or as an adjunct to surgery and chemotherapy.

Radiation therapy can cause cancer cells to die or grow at a slower rate, thus helping to shrink tumors and alleviate symptoms associated with cancer. It is often used for different types of cancers and can be tailored to the specific needs of patients, depending on their health status and the type and stage of cancer they are experiencing.

In contrast, procedures focused on diagnosing diseases or imaging internal organs do not involve the treatment of cancer directly. Similarly, while managing pain is important in oncology care, radiation therapy specifically aims to treat cancer rather than primarily providing pain relief. Thus, the focus of radiation therapy as a treatment option confirms that its principal function is to combat cancer effectively.