How does radiation therapy differ from diagnostic radiology?

Radiation therapy is primarily utilized as a treatment modality designed to target and destroy cancerous cells or tumors. This therapy employs high doses of radiation to damage the DNA of malignant cells, thereby inhibiting their ability to grow and divide. The goal is to reduce or eliminate tumors, alleviate symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for patients battling cancer.

In contrast to diagnostic radiology, which is centered around the use of imaging techniques to visualize the internal structures of the body for the purpose of diagnosing medical conditions, radiation therapy has a direct therapeutic focus. Diagnostic radiology includes imaging methods like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, which inform healthcare providers about the presence and nature of diseases but do not involve treatment.

The other options reflect misconceptions regarding the scope and purpose of radiation therapy. While it is true that certain decisions in treatment planning may be informed by diagnostic imaging, the primary role of radiation therapy itself is therapeutic rather than diagnostic or preventive. Additionally, the assertion that radiation therapy is solely for research purposes does not account for its established use in clinical practice, where it is an important component in managing various cancer types. Overall, the correct answer emphasizes the treatment aspect of radiation therapy, distinguishing it from other branches of radiology focused on diagnosis.