When was radiation therapy invented?

When was radiation therapy invented?

The use of ionizing radiation for the treatment of cancer dates back to the late 19th century, remarkably soon after Roentgen described X-rays in 1895 and the use of brachytherapy after Marie and Pierre Curie discovered radium in 1898.

Who used radiation therapy first?

One of the first Americans to use X-ray radiation to treat cancer was a Chicago chemist and homeopathic physician named Émil Grubbé (1875-1960).

Who pioneered radiation therapy?

The first effective radiation treatment for cancer was developed in Dublin 100 years ago, and was the forerunner of modern radiotherapies. The idea was the brainchild of John Joly, an inventive scientist from Co Offaly.

Did Marie Curie invent radiotherapy?

Marie Curie has left a great deal to the world. Her work led to the development of nuclear energy and radiotherapy (RT) for the treatment of cancer.

How was Marie Curie involved in radiation?

Marie Curie was known to carry test tubes of radioactive radium around in the pocket of her lab coat, not realising that it was affecting her health. She died on 4 July 1934 from leukaemia, caused by exposure to high-energy radiation from her research.

What is radiation therapy and how is it used?

Radiation therapy is the use of high-energy radiation to damage cancer cells’ DNA and destroy their ability to divide and grow . It may be delivered using machines called linear accelerators or via radioactive sources placed inside the patient on a temporary or permanent basis. Radiation therapy may be used to cure cancer, to relieve a cancer patient’s pain or alleviate other symptoms.

How did radiation therapy start?

The history of radiation therapy or radiotherapy can be traced back to experiments made soon after the discovery of x-rays (1895), when it was shown that exposure to radiation produced cutaneous burns.

What are the pros and cons of radiation therapy?

Radiation therapy can also cause problems with tissues, glands or organs near the site of the treatment. Long-term side effects can include the growth of scar tissue, infertility and damage to other areas the body, depending on the location of the radiation treatment.

How successful is radiation therapy?

Radiation therapy generally requires 5 treatments per week over 6-8 weeks. Multiple long- and short-term studies indicate success rates over 85% especially when used with other therapies. Multiple long- and short-term studies indicate success rates over 85% especially when used with other therapies.