Radiation Therapy History

When you enroll in a radiation therapist degree program, you may be required to take at least one course in the history of radiation therapy. Studying the history of radiation therapy can give you an idea of some of the key developments about radiation therapy, and learn about influential scientists who helped with the development of radiation therapy for cancer treatment. The history of radiation therapy can be traced to the 1800s when Marie Curie won a Noble Prize for her work with radioactive elements. You will learn about the history of radiation therapy in more detail when completing a radiation therapy degree program or certification program at an accredited school.



What is the History of Radiation Therapy?

Until the 1900s, there were only superficial cures available for cancer and recurring tumors. Doctors didn't have a way to treat patients internally or with any proven method of treatment until radiation therapy application methods were available. The history radiation therapy as we know it today can be traced to the 1960s, but some of the early developments can be traced to the 1930s when World War II hardware advances found that X-rays could penetrate the skin tissues and effectively destroy cancerous cells.

These devices were bought up to a clinical setting during the 1960s so that they could be used as part of an actual medical treatment for cancer. Computer technologies allowed for 3D imaging devices and to be used to produce images of the tumor and make X-ray treatment more effective. Later, scanning technologies allowed for a more targeted delivery of radiation therapy and treatments are now very effective for reducing the size of a tumor and helping with the elimination of certain types of cancers.

Radiation therapy has been used for cancer treatment or over 100 years and now plays a pivotal role in the treatment of certain types of cancers.

Studying the History of Radiation Therapy

You will have the chance to study the history of radiation therapy and learn about key developments over time when you are enrolled in an accredited radiation therapy degree program. Radiation therapist training programs typically include at least one or a few courses in the history of radiation therapy to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the different types of radiation treatments that have helped in cancer treatment, and the latest technologies that are used today.

Students learn about 3D simulation technologies, scanners and other high-tech machines that are used in cancer treatment, and also have a chance to complete clinicals and hands-on training to acquire skills they need to be successful in this field.

Some schools do offer the option to take courses like the History of Radiation Therapy online, as the course itself does not require hands-on training of any kind. Completing a portion of a radiation therapy course online can make it easier for students who are working at a part-time job or need some flexibility in their schedule. While some courses can be completed entirely over the Web, remaining courses will need to be completed at an accredited college or training facility.