Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses medicines to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It is given in planned cycles, allowing the body time to recover between sessions.
Types of chemotherapy include adjuvant, neoadjuvant, curative and palliative chemotherapy, depending on the cancer and treatment goals. Common side effects such as nausea, fatigue, hair loss and increased infection risk are monitored and managed throughout treatment.
At Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital, chemotherapy treatment Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune is planned by an experienced oncology team based on the cancer type, stage and individual treatment needs, with supportive care provided throughout the treatment.
Chemotherapy refers to the use of medicines to fight cancer. These medicines target and destroy cancer cells, which grow and multiply quickly. The goal of chemotherapy is to reduce or eliminate cancer, either on its own or in combination with other treatments like surgery or radiation.
There are several chemotherapy types, each with its own way of working and purpose:
This is given after surgery to ensure that any cancer cells left behind are destroyed. Even if the visible tumour is removed, there might be tiny cancer cells that can't be seen, and this treatment helps to get rid of them.
This type is used before surgery. Its goal is to shrink the tumour, making it smaller and easier to remove completely during surgery. By reducing the size, doctors can perform a lesser invasive surgery.
When cancer can't be cured, this treatment helps to relieve symptoms like pain or discomfort. It's focused on improving the patient’s quality of life rather than trying to eliminate the cancer.
This treatment is used when there's a good chance of completely curing the cancer, especially if it's still in the early stages and hasn't spread much. The goal is to remove or destroy all cancer cells in the body.
Chemotherapy is generally given in cycles, with periods of treatment followed by periods of rest. This approach helps the body recover from the medicines side effects. Each cycle usually lasts a few weeks, with treatment sessions varying from daily to weekly, depending on the treatment plan.
The chemotherapy procedure varies depending on the type and stage of cancer. Here’s a basic overview of how chemotherapy is done:
Chemotherapy medicines are designed to target cancer cells, but they can also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects. Common side effects include:
Not everyone experiences all side effects, and some may experience different symptoms. It’s important to communicate with doctors about any side effects to manage them effectively.
Chemotherapy is a powerful tool in fighting cancer, involving various chemotherapy types and procedures tailored to each patient’s needs. Understanding what chemotherapy is, how it is done, and the possible side effects can help in preparing for this treatment journey. Always consult with doctors to get personalized advice and support.
By knowing more about chemo treatment, patients and their families can feel more confident and prepared for the road ahead.
When considering chemotherapy treatment, selecting a reputable facility is crucial. Distance also plays a huge role in avoiding fatigue for the patient. For those in Pune, finding the best cancer hospital in Pune can make a significant difference in support during treatment.
If you still have questions, feel free to contact us or visit the Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital.