Treatments
CHEMOTHERAPY
What is chemotherapy?
The word “chemo” refers to medicines or drugs used to treat cancer, but not all medication used to treat cancer works the same. Chemotherapy is a powerful form of chemical drug therapy used to destroy rapidly growing cancer cells in the body. It is normally indicated to treat cancer, as cancer cells mature and divide faster than other cells.
Chemotherapy is normally used in combination with other therapies like radiation, surgery, or hormone therapy. The indication of combination therapy depends on the following:
- Your overall health
- Stage and type of cancer you are diagnosed with
- The location of the cancer cells
- Personal treatment preferences
- Previous cancer treatments you’ve had
WHEN IS CHEMOTHERAPY INDICATED?
Chemotherapy may be indicated to:
- Reduce the likelihood of cancer migrating to other parts of the body
- Lower the number of cancer cells in the body
- Shrink the tumour size
- Reduce current symptoms
- Reduce pain in the case of late-stage cancer
This treatment may also be recommended if you have undergone surgery to remove a cancerous tumour, such as a lumpectomy for breast cancer. In this case, chemotherapy helps ensure that the treatment kills any lingering cancer cells. Chemotherapy may also be used to prepare for other cancer treatments, such as the surgical removal of tumours or radiation therapy.
WHAT DOES CHEMOTHERAPY ENTAIL?
Chemotherapy is normally given in pill form or directly into the veins with an injection or an IV.
FAQ
HOW LONG DOES CHEMOTHERAPY LAST?
The oncologist will determine a treatment plan depending on your health and needs. You may receive chemotherapy for a certain period of time or for as long as it works. Chemotherapy treatment may last 3-6 months, depending on the type of drug used and the stage of cancer.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF CHEMOTHERAPY?
Chemotherapy may produce adverse effects, which may range from mild to severe depending on the type and extent of treatment.
WILL I BE ABLE TO WORK WHILE UNDERGOING CANCER THERAPY?
This depends on the type of treatment you are receiving, the stage of your cancer, overall health and the kind of work you do. The oncologist will advise accordingly.