Concern over long-term side effects of radiation therapy is becoming more common, as survival rates improve.
These can include heart problems, lung problems, thyroid problems, secondary cancers, and more.
Still, its important to remember that these treatments' benefits usually far outweigh any risks.
Mark Kostich / istock
Many people will not experience any of these late effects.
Causes and Risk Factors
Radiation therapyworks by damaging DNA in cells.
This damage isn’t isolated to cancer cells, though; normal cells can be damaged as well.
Several variables can increase or decrease your risk of developing long-term side effects of radiotherapy.
With more precise dosing and newer methods of delivery, older studies may overestimate the risks.
Long-Term Side Effects
Not everyone will have long-term side effects after radiation treatment.
Many people will only experience some redness of their skin and fatigue at the time of treatment.
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Lung fibrosisis a permanent scarring of the lungs which can result from untreatedradiation pneumonitis.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is a very important and not uncommon long-term side effect of radiation therapy.
The risk peaks at 5 to 9 years after radiation treatment has been completed.
Solid Tumors
Radiation therapy may also increase later risk of solid tumors, especially thyroid cancer and breast cancer.
Unlike blood-related cancers, the risk is highest 10 to 15 years or more after treatment is finished.
Musculoskeletal Concerns
A number of different musculoskeletal concerns can arise years or decades after radiation.
Osteoporosis/Fractures
Radiation may result in weakening of the bones, osteoporosis, andosteonecrosis.
For example, radiation to the chest may result in the ribs becoming fractured more easily.
This damage may result in permanentdry mouthor dry eyes.Cataracts and dental decay may also be problems.
National Cancer Institute.Late effects of cancer treatment.
Washington: World Bank Publications; 2015.
American Cancer Society.Radiation therapy side effects.
2018;15(1-2):3644.
Gegechkori N, Haines L, Lin JJ.Long-Term and Latent Side Effects of Specific Cancer Types.Med Clin North Am.
2014;12(1):4153. doi:10.1016/j.ejcsup.2014.03.004
