How does surgery work in cancer treatment?
Surgery involves the physical removal of the cancerous tumor from the body. It's most effective for cancers that are localized and haven't spread. Surgeons aim to remove the tumor along with some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure no cancer cells are left behind. In some cases, surgery may be combined with other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.
What is radiation therapy?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy particles or waves, such as X-rays, gamma rays, electron beams, or protons, to destroy or damage cancer cells. It can be used as a primary treatment or in combination with other therapies. Radiation is particularly effective for treating localized cancers and can be delivered externally (external beam radiation) or internally (brachytherapy).
How does chemotherapy treat cancer?
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. These drugs can be administered orally or intravenously and circulate throughout the body, making chemotherapy a systemic treatment. It can be used to shrink tumors before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy), eliminate remaining cancer cells after surgery (adjuvant therapy), or treat metastatic cancers.
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that stimulates the patient's immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively. This can include checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, and cancer vaccines. Immunotherapy has shown success in treating various cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, and certain types of lymphoma.
How do targeted therapies work?
Targeted therapy involves drugs designed to target specific molecules or pathways crucial for cancer cell growth and survival. Unlike chemotherapy, which affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapies aim to interfere with cancer-specific processes. Examples include tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies.
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 the effects of hormones on cancer cells. Common hormone therapies include tamoxifen for breast cancer and androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer.
What is a stem cell transplant?
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stem cell transplant involves replacing damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy stem cells. This procedure is often used for hematologic cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Stem cells can be sourced from the patient (autologous transplant) or a donor (allogeneic transplant).
What factors influence the choice of cancer treatment?
The choice of cancer treatment depends on multiple factors including the type and stage of cancer, the patient's age, overall health, and personal preferences. Genetic mutations, biomarkers, and the presence of specific receptors can also influence treatment decisions. Multidisciplinary teams of healthcare professionals collaborate to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient.
What are the potential side effects of cancer treatments?
Cancer treatments can cause a range of side effects, which vary depending on the type of treatment and the individual patient. Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and increased risk of infection. Long-term effects may include heart or lung problems, fertility issues, and secondary cancers. Managing side effects is a crucial aspect of cancer care, and healthcare providers offer various strategies to help patients cope.
How can patients prepare for cancer treatment?
Preparation for cancer treatment involves several steps, including understanding the diagnosis, discussing treatment options and goals with healthcare providers, and arranging for support systems. Patients may need to undergo additional tests, make lifestyle changes, and organize practical matters like work and family responsibilities. Emotional and psychological support is also vital, and many resources are available to help patients and their families navigate the cancer journey.
