Radiation therapy is one of the most common and effective treatments for cancer. It has been around for more than 120 years, and today it’s used in about 60 percent of all cases. To help us better understand how it works, what patients can expect, and the services available locally, we sat down with Dr. Brian Fuller, Radiation Oncologist at San Juan Regional Cancer Center.

“Radiation therapy is essentially the use of high-energy x-rays to damage cancer cells,” Dr. Fuller explained. “These rays create oxygen radicals that break DNA, making it difficult for cancer cells to divide. In many cases, it sends a death signal to the cell.”

Treatment Sessions: What Patients Can Expect

The length of each treatment varies, depending on the type of cancer and the treatment goals. However, with today’s technological advances and sophisticated equipment, sessions are much shorter, most lasting only a few minutes. 

• Session length: Usually 5–20 minutes each
• Number of sessions: Anywhere from a single treatment to 28 sessions, depending on the site and surrounding tissue

Side Effects: Temporary and Location-Based

Because radiation therapy is a local treatment, side effects depend on where the therapy is directed.

• Possible short-term effects: Skin irritation, swelling, sore throat, or difficulty swallowing (when treating areas like the throat or esophagus)
• Long-term effects: Rare, but vary depending on the site treated

“These side effects are usually temporary,” Dr. Fuller reassured. “And most importantly, they are manageable with the support of the care team.”

Supporting Patients Through the Journey

A cancer diagnosis is understandably overwhelming. At San Juan Regional Cancer Center, patients never face it alone.

“I tell my patients to take it one day at a time,” Dr. Fuller said. “We’re a team. I provide education, counseling, and clear explanations of the risks and benefits. And I make sure patients know there is always hope. That mindset is a vital part of their journey.”

State-of-the-Art Technology Close to Home

San Juan Regional Cancer Center offers advanced treatment tools, including a state-of-the-art linear accelerator.

“This machine allows us to deliver precise, high-dose treatments safely—sometimes in as few as one to five sessions,” Dr. Fuller said.

Comprehensive Cancer Care Services

Radiation therapy is just one part of the comprehensive care offered at San Juan Regional Cancer Center. Patients also benefit from:

• Nurse navigator support to guide them through the treatment process
• Nutrition counseling from a dedicated specialist
• IV hydration when needed
• Cancer support groups to connect with others on similar journeys

Dr. Fuller’s Message to Patients

Radiation therapy is sometimes misunderstood, but Dr. Fuller wants patients to know it can be both safe and effective.

“Radiation is often given with curative intent,” he explained. “It’s not as devastating as some believe. I encourage patients to seek out an expert opinion, understand the benefits, and trust that radiation therapy can play a powerful role in their treatment.”

For more information about cancer services at San Juan Regional Cancer Center, visit https://www.sanjuanregional.com/ourservices/cancer.