Radiations have damaging effects on the body tissues, organs and systems. Ionizing radiations could also be used to image and treat diseased parts of the body especially cancers. The treatment of cancers and other diseaese to cure the body and restore wholeness healthy living using ionizing radiations is Radiation Therapy. The American Society of Radiation Oncology produced a video that educates patient and the public on radiation therapy. The link is provided below. Click on this link for the video to open on a new window:
The use LINIAC for radiation therapy is shown in this clip.
A medical linear accelerator (LINAC)
A medical physicist is an important member of the healthcare team when it comes to providing cure or better living condition (with reduced pain) for people undergoing cancer treatment. The design of radiation treatment plan is an essential skill for us as practitioners. I have included on this page an hour lecture on treatment planning systems for interested readers.