Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a powerful medical treatment used to destroy rapidly dividing cancer cells in the body. It plays a crucial role in managing various types of cancers, either as a primary treatment or in combination with surgery and radiation therapy. Chemotherapy drugs work by targeting fast-growing cells, preventing their growth, division, and spread. While it is highly effective, the therapy also affects some healthy cells, which can lead to temporary side effects.
Causes and Indications for Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is recommended when cancer cells grow uncontrollably and have the potential to spread. It is prescribed for various reasons, such as shrinking tumors before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy), eliminating remaining cancer cells after surgery (adjuvant therapy), slowing disease progression in advanced cancers, and managing cancers that cannot be treated with surgery alone. Doctors may also use chemotherapy in combination with targeted therapy or immunotherapy for more effective disease control.
How Chemotherapy Works
Chemotherapy drugs travel through the bloodstream, making them effective for treating cancers that have spread to multiple parts of the body. Different drugs may be used based on the type of cancer, stage, and patient’s overall health. Treatment is typically given in cycles, allowing the body to recover between sessions. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, intravenously, through injections, or topically, depending on the drug and condition.
Common Symptoms and Side Effects
While chemotherapy targets cancer cells, it may also damage healthy cells in the hair follicles, digestive system, mouth, and bone marrow, leading to temporary side effects. Common symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, hair thinning or hair loss, diarrhea or constipation, and mouth sores. Patients may also experience low blood counts, leading to anemia, increased risk of infections, or easy bruising. Not everyone experiences all symptoms, and many side effects can be effectively managed with supportive medications.
Diagnosis and Evaluation Before Chemotherapy
Before starting chemotherapy, a detailed medical evaluation is performed. This includes blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes biopsies to determine the type and stage of cancer. The oncologist assesses the patient's overall health, organ function, and potential risk factors to decide the most suitable treatment plan.
Treatment Approach and Management
Chemotherapy treatment is personalized. Oncologists select specific drug combinations and decide the dose and schedule based on clinical guidelines. During treatment, patients are monitored regularly to track their progress, manage side effects, and adjust medications if needed. Supportive care — including anti-nausea drugs, nutritional counseling, hydration therapy, and infection prevention — plays an essential role.