Introduction Cancer is one of the most challenging diseases of the modern era due to its diverse types, complex mechanisms, and significant impact on human health. In recent decades, cancer treatment has witnessed remarkable progress, particularly with the rapid development of modern radiation technologies that have significantly improved treatment outcomes and increased survival rates. Radiation therapy is considered one of the main pillars of cancer treatment, as it relies on the use of ionizing radiation to destroy cancer cells or inhibit their growth and division. Concept of Radiation Therapy Radiation therapy is a medical treatment that uses carefully calculated doses of radiation directed at tumors to damage the DNA of cancer cells, leading to their death or loss of reproductive ability. This treatment can be used alone or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of the tumor. Modern Radiation Technologies in Cancer Treatment 1. Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) IMRT is one of the most advanced radiation therapy techniques, allowing precise control over radiation intensity and distribution according to the shape and size of the tumor. This technique significantly reduces radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, thereby minimizing side effects and enhancing treatment effectiveness. 2. Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) IGRT relies on advanced medical imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to accurately locate the tumor before and during treatment sessions. This ensures precise targeting of the tumor, even if its position changes, improving treatment accuracy and safety. 3. Proton Therapy Proton therapy is one of the most precise forms of radiation therapy, using proton beams instead of conventional X-rays. This technique delivers radiation directly to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, making it especially suitable for treating pediatric cancers and tumors located near critical organs. 4. Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SRS & SBRT) These techniques deliver very high doses of radiation to small, well-defined tumors with extreme precision over a limited number of sessions. They have shown excellent results in treating brain, lung, and liver tumors. Benefits of Modern Radiation Technologies Modern radiation technologies have provided numerous advantages, including increased treatment precision, reduced side effects, improved patient quality of life, and higher tumor control rates with lower recurrence risks. Challenges and Future Perspectives Despite the significant advancements in radiation therapy, challenges remain, including the high cost of advanced equipment, the need for specialized medical staff, and the importance of long-term monitoring to minimize radiation-related effects. However, the integration of radiation technologies with artificial intelligence and personalized medicine represents a promising future direction in cancer treatment. Conclusion Modern radiation technologies represent a major advancement in cancer treatment, offering high precision and therapeutic efficiency while minimizing complications. Continued investment and development in this field are essential to improve healthcare outcomes and address the growing global burden of cancer. Al-Mustaqbal University Ranks First Among Iraqi Private Universities