Cancer Treatment
Cancer is treated in several ways, depending on each person's
medical condition and type of cancer. Common treatments involve
chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Other treatments include surgery
and biological therapies.
For many people with cancer, treatment is a process that is designed
to meet their needs. Doctors plan treatments based on several key
factors, such as the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the
person's age, health, and lifestyle.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer, it is important for you to
know that you play an important role in the treatment process.
Offering input, asking questions, and expressing your concerns about
treatment can help make treatment a better experience.
Cancer treatment terms you should know
Combined modality therapy: A term used to describe when doctors
choose more than one therapy in treating a patient, such as a
combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
Adjuvant therapy: A term used to describe when doctors choose
more than one therapy in treating a patient. However, the term
adjuvant therapy is more specifically used to describe treatment given
after the primary cancer treatment is completed to improve the chance
of a cure. For example, if the doctor wants to treat cancer cells that
may be present, he/she may prescribe one or more additional treatments.
Neoadjuvant therapy: A term used to describe when doctors
choose to use more than one therapy in treating a patient. However,
the term neoadjuvant therapy is more specifically used to describe
cancer treatment given before the primary therapy—both to kill any
cancer cells and contribute to the effectiveness of the primary therapy.
Preparing a patient for treatment
How can patients prepare for treatment?
As a patient, you play an important role in preparing for your
cancer treatment. The following are some of the most important things
to consider before treatment begins:
Find an oncologist and treatment center.
This step is important to everyone with cancer. Ask your general or
primary care doctor for a referral to an oncologist. You can also
contact government and professional medical organizations, such as
your state's health department, the National Cancer Institute (NCI),
or the American Medical Association (AMA) for information on cancer
specialists and treatment centers in your area.
Get a second opinion.
It is common for people diagnosed with cancer to ask another cancer
specialist for their opinion. A second opinion can help you to be sure
your diagnosis and treatment plans are most appropriate for your
individual medical history and profile. Asking for a second opinion
also provides more information to consider when making choices about
your treatment. Often, your oncologist can help you locate another
cancer specialist for a second opinion.
Find out about your cancer treatment.
Your cancer care team will help you understand your treatment and
answer questions. It also helps to learn about the type
of cancer you have, as well as your treatment options. Ask your
doctor where you can find more information about cancer. The Stanford
Cancer Center contains information on many cancer topics. Also, the
National Cancer Institute (NCI), the American Cancer Society (ACS),
and other cancer- and health-related organizations provide helpful information.
Find support when you need it.
Cancer treatment can be a long and tiring experience. Many people
with cancer need help throughout the process. Finding help from others
can make your experience more successful. Support groups for people
with cancer are available in many communities. Managing your emotional
health, your diet, and your finances are all things patients can do to
reduce the stress involved in the treatment process. Oncology nurses
and social workers are excellent resources for locating appropriate
support groups.
Cancer treatment methods
Cancer is treated in several ways, depending on each person's
medical condition and type of cancer. Common treatments involve
chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Other treatments include surgery
and biological therapies.
For many people with cancer, treatment is a process that is designed
to meet their needs. Doctors plan treatments based on several key
factors, such as the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the
person's age, health, and lifestyle. If you have been diagnosed with
cancer, it is important for you to know that you play an important
role in the treatment process. Offering input, asking questions, and
expressing your concerns about treatment can help make treatment a
better experience.
There is a great deal of information to learn about the cancer
treatment process, including various cancer treatment options—their
goals and side effects.