There are many types of cancer treatment. The types of treatment that you receive will depend on the type of cancer you have and how advanced it is. The main types of cancer treatment include:
A procedure in which a doctor with special training, called a surgeon, removes cancer from your body.
Uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
Uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
Procedures that restore blood-forming stem cells in people who have had theirs destroyed by high doses of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Some people with cancer will have only one treatment. But most people have a combination of treatments, such as surgery with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. When you need treatment for cancer, you have a lot to learn and think about. It is normal to feel overwhelmed and confused. But, talking with your doctor and learning about the types of treatment you may have can help you feel more in control.
Helps your immune system fight cancer.
Targets the changes in cancer cells that help them grow, divide, and spread.
Slows or stops the growth of cancer that uses hormones to grow.
Cancer treatments can cause side effects - problems that occur when treatment affects healthy tissues or organs. Side effects vary from person to person, even among those receiving the same treatment. Some people have very few side effects while others have many. The type of treatment(s) you receive, as well as the amount or frequency of the treatment, your age, and other health conditions you have may also factor into the side effects you may have.
Before you start treatment, ask your health care team what side effects you are likely to have. Learn about steps you can take, as well as supportive care that you will receive, to lessen side effects during and after treatment. Speak up about any side effects you have and changes you notice, so your health care team can treat or help you manage them.
This is to thank the National Cancer Institute for having put up the most authentic information and allowing its reproduction and reuse freely. For further information go on www.cancer.gov
