Radiation Oncology

At UnityPoint Health, our radiation oncology specialists use advanced radiation therapies to treat many types of cancer, including prostate and breast cancers. 

What Is Radiation Oncology?

Doctors use radiation oncology (also called radiation therapy) to treat many types of cancer. Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to damage the building blocks of cancer cells and stop them from growing or spreading. When cancer cells can no longer multiply, they no longer pose a threat to your health and the body gets rid of them. 

For certain types of cancer, radiation therapy is the only type of treatment needed, while other types of cancer are treated with a combination approach. Radiation may also be used to provide temporary relief of symptoms, or to treat malignancies (cancers) that cannot be removed with surgery.

Our cancer patients are assured of the most aggressive new methods, advanced treatment options and leading edge technology available today. We work hard to educate our patients and their family about their treatment process every step of the way. We view the family as an important part of the care we provide. Our ultimate goal is to provide accurate, precise and timely service to cure or relieve discomfort for the patient diagnosed with cancer.

How Does Radiation Therapy Work?

Radiation therapy works by focusing a beam of high-energy radiation or implanting radioactive sources in the area of tumor growth. Radiation can be used alone or in combination with other treatment, such as surgery and/or chemotherapy. In other cases, radiation therapy is employed as a supportive measure to reduce pain, pressure or bleeding. In addition, numerous benign tumors (non-cancerous) can be treated with radiation therapy. 

Why Choose UnityPoint Health for Cancer Care?

At UnityPoint Health, our multidisciplinary team of cancer experts creates a personalized treatment plan built around you, combining leading-edge therapies with compassionate support every step of the way. Patients have access to a range of treatment options, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapies, delivered by experienced specialists. 

UnityPoint Health also offers comprehensive support services to help patients and families with every stage of the cancer journey. From oncology nutrition counseling and genetic testing to cancer rehabilitation, patient navigation and support resources, our teams provide care for the whole person, not just the disease.

Our accredited cancer centers offer high-quality care close to home across Iowa and Illinois, allowing many patients to receive specialized lymphoma treatment without traveling far from their support system. Several UnityPoint Health cancer programs hold nationally recognized accreditations, reflecting a commitment to coordinated, patient-centered care.