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Under­stand­ing Radi­a­tion Oncology

September 02, 2026

A cancer diagnosis can bring many questions, including understanding the different treatment options available. One important and highly effective form of cancer treatment is radiation oncology.

Dr. Darrel Ross, Radiation Oncologist with Onslow Radiation Oncology, discusses this specialized field of medicine that uses targeted radiation therapy to treat cancer.

How Radiation Therapy Works

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to damage the DNA inside cancer cells, making it difficult for them to grow and divide. Over time, the treated cancer cells die, allowing the body to naturally remove them.

Treatment plans are carefully designed for each patient using advanced imaging and technology to precisely target the cancer area. Depending on the diagnosis, radiation therapy may be used:

  • As the primary treatment for cancer
  • Before surgery to shrink a tumor
  • After surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells
  • Alongside chemotherapy or other treatments
  • To relieve symptoms and improve quality of life

What to Expect During Treatment

Many people are surprised to learn that radiation therapy itself is painless. Treatments are typically delivered over a series of appointments, each lasting only a few minutes. Patients are awake and fully alert during the process.

Before treatment begins, patients are set up in a positioning device customized to their anatomy. This ensures precision and safety throughout the course of care.

The Importance of Local Cancer Care

Receiving cancer treatment close to home can make a meaningful difference for patients and families. Convenient access to radiation oncology services helps reduce travel burdens and allows patients to stay connected to their support systems while receiving high-quality care.

Radiation oncologists work closely with a patient’s entire cancer care team, including surgeons, medical oncologists, nurses, and other specialists to create personalized treatment plans based on the type, size, and location of the cancer.

Patients don’t need to feel scared or nervous. The expert team at Onslow Radiation Oncology is here to support patients and families during their cancer care.

To learn more about Onslow Radiation Oncology visit, ORO.Onslow.org.

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