How does surgery help in treating cancer?
Surgery involves removing the tumor and surrounding tissue during an operation. It is one of the oldest forms of cancer treatment and is often combined with other treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. The goal of surgery can be to remove the entire tumor, reduce its size, or alleviate symptoms caused by the tumor.
What is radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It can be delivered externally through a machine (external beam radiation) or internally by placing radioactive material inside the body (brachytherapy). Radiation therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments to improve outcomes.
Explain chemotherapy and its side effects.
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. It can be administered orally or intravenously. While effective, chemotherapy can cause side effects such as nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and increased risk of infection due to its impact on healthy cells. The specific side effects depend on the type of drugs used and the individual patient.
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that helps the immune system fight cancer. This can be achieved through
checkpoint inhibitors, which block proteins that prevent immune cells from attacking cancer cells, or through
CAR T-cell therapy, which modifies a patient's T-cells to attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy has shown promise in treating certain types of cancer that do not respond well to traditional therapies.
How does targeted therapy work?
Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules and pathways that are involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy aims to interfere with the cancer cells' specific biological mechanisms. This can result in fewer side effects and more effective treatment for certain cancers.
What role does hormone therapy play in cancer treatment?
Hormone therapy is used to treat cancers that are sensitive to hormones, such as breast and prostate cancer. It works by blocking the body's ability to produce hormones or by interfering with hormone action. This can slow or stop the growth of hormone-sensitive tumors.
How do doctors decide which treatment is best for a patient?
The choice of treatment is based on several factors including the type and stage of cancer, the location of the tumor, the patient’s overall health, and preferences. Multidisciplinary teams of doctors, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists, often collaborate to develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient.
What should patients expect during cancer treatment?
Cancer treatment can vary widely in duration and intensity. Patients may experience a range of side effects depending on the treatment type. It is important for patients to have regular consultations with their healthcare team, adhere to the treatment plan, and report any side effects. Supportive care, including pain management and nutritional support, can help manage side effects and improve quality of life during treatment.
Can lifestyle changes impact cancer treatment and recovery?
Yes, lifestyle changes can significantly impact treatment outcomes and recovery. Maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol can improve overall health and help the body cope with the rigors of treatment. Psychological support and stress management are also important aspects of comprehensive cancer care.
