What Is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy uses medicines to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells. The drugs, doses and schedule are planned for each patient based on the type and stage of cancer and overall health. Chemotherapy may be given before surgery to shrink a tumour, after surgery to lower the chance of the cancer returning, or as the main treatment for advanced disease. It can be combined with radiation, targeted therapy or immunotherapy. Before each cycle, blood tests and a check-up are done to make sure it is safe to continue. Treatment is given in cycles with rest periods in between, so the body has time to recover.
Chemotherapy may be given through a vein, as tablets, or by other routes, depending on the medicines planned for you. Your doctor will explain the method and schedule before treatment starts.
This depends on the drugs used. Some sessions take under an hour, while others take several hours. Your care team will tell you what to expect for your plan.
Side effects vary from person to person and from drug to drug. Common ones include tiredness, nausea and low blood counts. Your team will monitor you and help manage them.
Many patients can continue light daily activities. Your doctor will advise you based on your health and the treatment plan.
