What are gama rays used for in hospitals?

Gamma rays are a type of high-energy electromagnetic radiation, and they are used in hospitals for a variety of purposes, including:

1. Cancer Treatment (Radiotherapy): Gamma rays are commonly used in radiotherapy to treat cancerous tumors by destroying cancer cells or preventing them from multiplying. This is achieved by directing a precisely controlled beam of gamma rays from a radiation source (such as a gamma knife or linear accelerator) to the affected area.

2. Medical Imaging (Nuclear Medicine): In nuclear medicine, gamma rays are emitted by radioactive substances (radiopharmaceuticals) that are introduced into the body through injection, ingestion, or inhalation. This radioactive material or "radiotracer" is absorbed or collected in specific organs or tissues, and the emitted gamma rays can be detected by special cameras (gamma cameras) and processed to create detailed images that provide crucial information about the structure and function of the body. These images help diagnose illnesses like tumors, kidney problems, cardiac issues, and more.

3. Radioisotope Production: Cobalt-60, which emits gamma rays, is a common source used in hospitals for producing various radioisotopes for medical treatments. The gamma rays released from Cobalt-60 are used to activate stable atoms within a target material, converting them into radioactive isotopes used in imaging and some treatment therapies.