Radioactive Iodine Therapy for Thyroid Cancer: Benefits and Risks

What is Radioactive Iodine Therapy? Radioactive iodine therapy (RAI) is a targeted treatment used after thyroid surgery to eliminate any remaining thyroid tissue or microscopic cancer cells. Since thyroid cells naturally absorb iodine, the radioactive form selectively destroys cancerous cells without harming most other tissues in the body. It is mainly recommended for papillary and follicular thyroid cancers and plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of recurrence. How Does the Therapy Work? After surgery, patients are given a capsule or liquid form of radioactive iodine. Once swallowed, it travels through the bloodstream and is absorbed primarily by thyroid cells. The radiation then destroys these cells over time. This precision makes RAI therapy one of the safest and most effective post-surgical treatments available for thyroid cancer patients. Major Benefits of Radioactive Iodine Therapy 1. Highly Targeted Treatment – It specifically attacks thyroid cells, sp...