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Radiation Therapy: Support and Resources

When you find out you have cancer, you most likely have questions about treatment.

Woman with family members talking to healthcare provider.
You can bring family members with you for support to healthcare visits.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. It can also affect healthy cells nearby and cause side effects that depend on:

  • What type of radiation therapy is done

  • What part of your body receives the radiation

  • How long your treatment lasts

Getting support

You are not facing cancer treatment alone. Keep a list of any questions you have for your radiation therapy team. Ask these questions during your visits. Call your team if you need to. 

You can also get help from:

  • Family members

  • Friends

  • Support groups (in person or online)

  • Counseling

  • Social workers, case managers, or navigators

Talk with your healthcare team if you need a referral to counseling.

Cancer resources

To learn more about cancer and to find support groups, contact the resources below:

Online Medical Reviewer: Akash D Parekh MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH
Online Medical Reviewer: Susan K. Dempsey-Walls RN
Date Last Reviewed: 8/1/2023
© 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.