What is considered a primary goal of radiation therapy?

The primary goal of radiation therapy is to shrink tumors using radiation. This treatment modality utilizes high-energy waves or particles to target and destroy cancer cells, leading to a reduction in tumor size. By effectively targeting the tumor, radiation therapy can help control the spread of cancer, ease symptoms, and improve the chances of long-term survival for patients.

While enhancing exercise capacity, preventing all forms of cancer, and relieving symptoms are important aspects of overall cancer management and patient care, they do not encompass the primary intention of radiation therapy itself. Instead, radiation therapy specifically focuses on the direct action of diminishing the tumor burden, which can subsequently help in alleviating certain symptoms but does not guarantee complete relief of all cancer-related symptoms.