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Oncology treatments play a crucial role in combating cancer by utilising a variety of approaches to target and destroy cancerous cells while minimising harm to healthy tissue. Among the most common and effective oncology treatments are chemotherapy and radiation therapy, both of which have proven to be essential in the fight against cancer.
Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to target and kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. These drugs can be administered orally or intravenously, depending on the specific needs of the patient and the type of cancer being treated. Chemotherapy works by interfering with the cancer cell’s ability to grow and multiply, thereby reducing the size of tumours and preventing the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.
On the other hand, radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours. This treatment works by damaging the DNA within cancer cells, which prevents them from growing and dividing. Radiation therapy can be delivered externally, using machines that direct radiation beams at the cancer, or internally, where radioactive materials are placed inside the body near the cancer cells. This treatment is highly precise, targeting only the cancerous area to minimise damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Radiation therapy is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery and chemotherapy, to enhance its effectiveness and improve patient outcomes.
Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy have their own set of benefits that contribute to improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Here are some of the major benefits these oncological treatments offer:
Chemotherapy:
Radiation Therapy:
Aspect | Chemotherapy | Radiation Therapy |
Mechanism of Action | Uses drugs to interfere with cell division by damaging DNA/RNA | Uses high doses of radiation to damage DNA in cancer cells |
Administration | Orally (pills/liquid) or intravenously (through a vein) | External beam (machine-directed) or internal (brachytherapy) |
Target | Systemic (throughout the body) | Localised (specific area of the body) |
Types | Various drugs targeting different cell cycle phases; often combined | External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) and Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy) |
Combination with Other Treatments | Often combined with radiation therapy or surgery for enhanced effectiveness | Often used before surgery to shrink tumours or after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells |
Side Effects | Affects rapidly dividing healthy cells; side effects include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and infection risk | Can affect nearby healthy cells; side effects include skin irritation, fatigue, and localised changes |
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are versatile treatments used to combat a wide range of cancers and other medical conditions.
Chemotherapy:
Radiation therapy:
Each chemotherapy session can vary in length, from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the drugs used and the treatment plan. Radiation therapy sessions typically last about 10 to 30 minutes, including the time needed to position the patient correctly.
Many patients continue to work during chemotherapy and radiation therapy, but it depends on the type and intensity of your treatment, as well as your overall health. Some patients may need to adjust their work schedules or take time off, especially if they experience significant side effects.
If you experience severe side effects, it’s important to contact your healthcare team immediately. They can provide medications and strategies to manage side effects and ensure your treatment plan is adjusted as needed to maintain your quality of life.
Regular imaging tests and blood work will be conducted to monitor the effectiveness of your treatment. Your oncologist will review these results with you and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Long-term side effects can vary depending on the specific treatment and individual factors. Some potential long-term effects include fatigue, heart issues, or secondary cancers. Your oncologist will discuss these risks with you.
Both treatments can impact fertility in men and women. It’s crucial to discuss fertility preservation options with your oncologist before starting treatment.
While some patients may experience changes in appetite or taste, maintaining a balanced diet is important. Your healthcare team can provide dietary recommendations to manage any side effects.
Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy, although it varies depending on the specific drugs and dosages used. Radiation therapy usually causes hair loss only in the treated area. Your healthcare provider can give you a better idea based on your specific treatment plan.