What are some of the pros and cons of the medical application of radiation?

Radiation therapy is usually used for treatment of certain
types of cancer. It can be given to shrink a tumor before surgery, or after surgery to
destroy any cancer cells that may be left behind in the area. It may be given in
conjunction with chemotherapy. Cancer cells divide more rapidly then normal cells and
when radiation therapy is given to a patient, the cancer cells are more vulnerable to
the effects of radiation and their DNA is unable to be replicated, thus stopping or
slowing the cancer cells from spreading. Normal cells are less vulnerable to the effects
of radiation, although they too can become harmed. However, they replicate at a much
slower pace and DNA repair mechanisms can often times repair any damage to nearby
healthy tissue. However, this is a risk for pregnant women as radiation can damage the
cells of a fetus. Also, there are side effects including fatigue, nausea, burning of the
skin and vomiting.