Cancer is a major global health concern, with around 20 million new cases and 9.7 million deaths in 2022 alone, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). Shockingly, 1 in 5 people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, and nearly 1 in 10 men and 1 in 12 women will lose their battle to the disease.
But cancer treatment has come a long way. Thanks to breakthroughs in precision oncology, treatments are now more targeted and personalised than ever, offering hope for better outcomes. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common cancer treatments, how they work, and how they help patients on their path to recovery.
Chemotherapy is one of the oldest yet widely used cancer treatment methods. It involves the use of powerful drugs designed to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered orally or via intravenous (IV) injection, and it works by targeting cells that divide quickly, one of the key characteristics of cancer cells.
While chemotherapy effectively kills cancer cells, it also impacts normal, healthy cells that divide rapidly, such as those in the hair, mouth, and gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to side effects such as fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and an more risk of infections. The severity of side effects often depends on the type and dosage of chemotherapy drugs used.
Chemotherapy is used in both early-stage and advanced cancers. It may be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other therapies such as surgery or radiation. Additionally, chemotherapy is used as a neoadjuvant therapy (before surgery) to shrink tumours or as an adjuvant therapy (after surgery) to eradicate any remaining cancer cells and prevent recurrence.
Radiation therapy is another cornerstone of cancer treatment. It involves using high-energy radiation (such as X-rays or protons) to destroy or damage cancer cells. The goal of radiation therapy is to target and eliminate cancer cells in a specific area of the body while limiting damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Radiation is often used to treat localised cancers, meaning cancers that have not spread extensively. It may also be used in palliative care to relieve symptoms of advanced cancer or to shrink tumours that are causing discomfort or obstruction.
Unlike traditional cancer treatments, targeted therapy is a more precise, genetically-based treatment that focuses on specific molecular changes in cancer cells. These therapies aim to interrupt the development of cancer by targeting specific molecules or proteins involved in the disease’s development, such as mutated genes or abnormal proteins.
One of the critical benefits of targeted therapy is its ability to minimise damage to healthy cells while effectively attacking cancer cells. This means that side effects are often less severe than those associated with chemotherapy and radiation.
Targeted therapy offers a highly personalised treatment route, allowing oncologists to design a personalised treatment plan based on genetic testing and molecular analysis of the tumour.
Immunotherapy is a newer and innovative treatment option that works by boosting the body’s immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells. Unlike other treatments that directly target cancer cells, immunotherapy helps the immune system become more effective at detecting and destroying abnormal cells.
1. Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy is used for cancers that are sensitive to hormones, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer. This treatment either lowers the levels of certain hormones or blocks their effects on cancer cells, slowing or stopping tumour growth.
2. Cancer Surgery: Surgery is one of the oldest cancer treatments and remains essential for many types of cancer. It is often used to remove a tumour entirely (curative surgery) or reduce the tumour burden to ease symptoms (palliative surgery). Surgery is generally combined with other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation.
3. Stem Cell Transplant: A stem cell transplant is mainly used for blood cancers like leukaemia or lymphoma. It replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells, helping restore the patient’s ability to produce blood cells after high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Choosing the right cancer treatment requires a thoughtful approach, as the effectiveness of each option depends on various factors such as cancer type, stage, and individual health. Modern oncology offers a more personalised approach, integrating surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and advanced therapies like targeted therapies and immunotherapy. By tailoring treatments to the patient’s specific needs, we can optimise outcomes and enhance the quality of life. Consult with an oncologist today to explore the best treatment options for your unique situation.
Choosing the right treatment plan for cancer is crucial, and at AS LifeLine Cancer Care Hospital, we are committed to helping you steer your journey with personalised care and leading-edge treatment options. Our team of experts works with you to develop a comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment strategy tailored to your needs. Whether you're seeking a second opinion, exploring new treatment options, or need guidance on managing your cancer diagnosis, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Book your appointment now and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter future.
