How is Surgery Used in Cancer Treatment?
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for many solid tumors. The goal is to remove the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure all cancerous cells are eliminated. In cases where tumors cannot be fully removed,
debulking surgery may be performed to reduce the tumor size, making other treatments more effective.
What Role Does Chemotherapy Play?
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from dividing. It's often used in conjunction with other treatments like surgery or radiation. Chemotherapy can be administered intravenously or orally, and the side effects can be managed with supportive care.
How Does Radiation Therapy Work?
Radiation therapy uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It can be delivered externally or internally (brachytherapy). Radiation is often used in conjunction with other treatments and is particularly effective for localized cancers.
What is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a cutting-edge treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. This can include treatments like checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, and cancer vaccines. Immunotherapy is particularly promising for cancers that are resistant to other forms of treatment.
What Supportive Services are Available?
Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally taxing, necessitating a range of
supportive services. These may include pain management, nutritional counseling, and psychological support.
Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses and can be provided alongside curative treatments.
How Important is Follow-Up Care?
Follow-up care is essential for monitoring the patient’s recovery and detecting any recurrence of cancer. This includes regular check-ups, imaging tests, and blood tests. Follow-up care also involves managing any long-term side effects of treatment.
What Role Does Genetic Counseling Play?
Genetic counseling helps patients understand their risk for hereditary cancers. It involves analyzing family history and may include genetic testing to identify mutations that increase cancer risk. This information can guide preventive measures and early detection strategies.
Are Clinical Trials an Option?
Clinical trials offer access to new and potentially more effective treatments that are not yet widely available. Participating in a
clinical trial can provide patients with cutting-edge therapies and contribute to the advancement of cancer research.
