Cancer Treatment: Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy, and Palliative Care

Study Notes

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and spread. There are over 100 different types of cancer, which can develop in various parts of the body. Common types of cancer include breast, lung, colorectal, prostate, liver, and skin cancers.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a treatment for cancer that involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. These drugs can either kill the cells directly or prevent them from dividing and growing. It may be used before surgery or radiation therapy to shrink the tumor, after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, or when other treatments are not possible.

Side Effects

Chemotherapy can have various side effects depending on the type and amount of drugs used. Some common side effects include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, pain, nerve damage, and susceptibility to infections. These side effects may vary from person to person, and some people may experience more severe reactions than others.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is another treatment for cancer that uses high energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery or by itself if surgery is not an option. Radiation therapy can also help relieve symptoms caused by advanced cancer.

Side Effects

The side effects of radiation therapy depend on the type and location of treatment. Common side effects include skin changes, such as redness, peeling, and blistering; fatigue; upset stomach; diarrhea; urinary problems; and sexual dysfunction. As with chemotherapy, these side effects may vary from person to person, and some people may experience more severe reactions than others.

Palliative Care

Palliative care refers to specialized medical care designed to improve quality of life for patients who have serious illnesses like cancer. It focuses on managing pain and other symptoms while providing emotional support and practical advice for both patients and their families. Palliative care services should start early in the course of the illness and continue alongside curative or investigational therapies for as long as patients need them.

Description

Learn about the different treatments for cancer, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and palliative care. Understand how these treatments work, their side effects, and their role in managing cancer.