Chemotherapy: How It Works and What to Expect
By Dr. Jenan Khaled
Chemotherapy (also known as chemo) is a common and effective cancer treatment that uses powerful drugs to target and kill fast-growing cancer cells.
How Chemotherapy Works Against Cancer
Chemotherapy works by killing or halting the growth of rapidly dividing cells. It's used to treat cancer in several ways:
- Treatment: To cure, control, or slow the spread of cancer.
- Symptom Relief: To shrink tumors causing pain or complications.
Types of Cancer Treated
Chemo treats various cancers. It may be used alone or with other treatments depending on cancer type, spread, and patient health.
Combining Chemotherapy with Other Treatments
- Before surgery or radiation (neoadjuvant)
- After surgery or radiation (adjuvant)
- Alongside other therapies to boost effectiveness
- To target returning or spreading cancers
Common Side Effects
Chemo affects healthy fast-growing cells (mouth, intestines, hair), causing side effects like:
- Fatigue
- Mouth sores
- Nausea
- Hair loss
Cost of Chemotherapy
Costs vary by drug type, frequency, setting (home, clinic, hospital), and region. Most insurance covers it. Financial help is available.
Receiving Chemotherapy
Chemo can be given:
- Orally (pills/liquids)
- Intravenously (IV)
- Injection (muscle, under skin)
- Intrathecal (spinal cord)
- Intraperitoneal (abdominal cavity)
- Intra-arterial (direct to artery)
- Topical (skin cream)
Devices Used
IV chemo may involve:
- Catheter: Soft tube into a vein.
- Port: Disc under skin connected to a vein.
- Pump: Controls dosage, can be internal or external.
Choosing Drugs
Depends on cancer type, stage, prior treatments, and health conditions.
Location and Frequency
Chemo may occur at home, outpatient clinics, or hospitals. It's usually given in cycles with rest periods to allow recovery.
Effectiveness Monitoring
Doctors assess through exams and scans (MRI, CT, PET). Side effects don’t reflect effectiveness.
Diet and Work During Chemo
Chemo may cause eating issues. Dietitians can help. Many can work during treatment with accommodations.
Published by: Janan’s Realm – Cancer Insights Section
Website: www.janansrealm.com
Medical insights curated by Dr. Jenan Khaled, Oncology Consultant
كاهنة الحيرة – د. جنان