How does radiation therapy aim to treat cancer?

Radiation therapy treats cancer primarily by targeting cancer cells with ionizing radiation to damage their DNA. This method exploits the fact that cancer cells often proliferate more rapidly than normal cells, making them more susceptible to the destructive effects of radiation. The ionizing radiation causes breaks in the DNA strands of the cancer cells, which can lead to cell death or prevent the cells from dividing and growing. By delivering precise doses of radiation to the tumor, the therapy aims to maximize damage to the cancerous tissue while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissue.

This approach is significantly effective because many cancerous cells lack the same level of repair mechanisms that healthy cells possess, allowing for a more targeted strike on the tumor. As a result, radiation therapy can help shrink tumors, eliminate cancer cells, and prevent recurrence, which is critical for effective cancer treatment. The key feature of this method is its reliance on DNA damage as a primary mechanism for destroying malignancies.

Other methods mentioned, such as using heat, freezing, or nutrient infusions, do not align with the established mechanisms of radiation therapy's efficacy and approach in cancer treatment.