I know of women who had radiation for breast cancer three or more years ago and still have scars on their upper backs where the rays of energy exited.

Back then, the radiation beam went all the way through their body, and doctors had no way to limit the depth of its penetration. Perhaps because these women are alive to tell these stories, women who hear about their harrowing experiences get very frightened about the prospect of having radiation.

But radiation isn't so damaging anymore. Today, we have more sophisticated equipment and technology, which ensures that only what needs to be zapped is zapped.

So before you poo-poo radiation treatment, ask questions. Ask to be shown the exact place on your body (called the field of radiation) where the radiation will be focused. Ask what steps will be taken to protect your heart and lungs.

How will your skin be monitored during radiation to ensure it remains healthy and isn't burned (another common problem years ago)? With the development of partial-breast radiation, only the area where the tumor once lived is radiated; the rest of the breast tissue is protected.

We are truly making progress in delivering safe and effective radiation. So ask before you say no. You might be pleasantly surprised that things truly have changed for the better.