Comprehensive Cancer Care Services
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Overview of Cancer | Treatment Options
Treatment for cancer depends on the type of cancer; the size, location, and stage of the disease; the person’s general health; and other factors. The doctor develops a treatment plan to fit each person’s situation.
People with cancer are often treated by a team of specialists, which may include a surgeon, radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, and others. Most cancers are treated with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or biological therapy. The doctors may decide to use one treatment method or a combination of methods.
Clinical trials (research studies) offer important treatment options for many people with cancer. Research studies evaluate promising new therapies and answer scientific questions. The goal of such trials is to find treatments that are more effective in controlling cancer with fewer side effects. (For more information on Research/Clinical Trials see Section 7.)
Methods of Treatment and Their Side Effects
Treatment for cancer can be either local or systemic. Local treatments affect cancer cells in the tumor and the area near it. Surgery and radiation therapy are types of local treatment. Systemic treatments travel through the bloodstream, reaching cancer cells all over the body. Chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and biological therapy are examples of systemic treatment.
Treatment does damage healthy cells and tissues because it is difficult to protect all of the healthy cells from the harmful effects of the treatment. The side effects of cancer treatment depend mainly on the type and extent of the treatment. A patient’s reaction to treatment is closely monitored by physical exams, blood tests, and other tests. Doctors and nurses can explain the possible side effects of treatment, as well they can suggest ways to reduce or eliminate problems that may occur during and after treatment.
Nutrition During Cancer Treatment
Eating well while undergoing cancer treatment means getting enough calories and protein to help prevent weight loss and maintain strength. Eating well often helps people feel better and have more energy.
Some people with cancer find it hard to eat because they lose their appetite or are experiencing common side effects of treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, or mouth and lip sores, which make eating difficult. Often, foods taste different. Also, people being treated for cancer may not feel like eating due to discomfort or fatigue.
Follow-up Care
It is important for people who have had cancer to continue to have examinations regularly after their treatment is over. Follow-up care ensures that any changes in health are identified, and if the cancer recurs, it can be treated as soon as possible. Checkups may include a careful physical exam, imaging procedures, endoscopy, or lab tests. Additionally, any new health problem or change in health should to be reported to their doctor as soon as they appear.
