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Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells. It can be curative, adjuvant (after surgery), neoadjuvant (before surgery), or palliative (to relieve symptoms).
Introduction
Chemotherapy is one of the most widely used cancer treatments worldwide. It involves using powerful medicines (anti-cancer drugs) to kill cancer cells or stop them from multiplying. Because cancer cells grow and divide faster than most normal cells, chemotherapy can target them effectively.
In India, chemotherapy is a cornerstone of cancer care and is used across multiple cancer types, either alone or in combination with surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. Modern chemotherapy is far safer than many people think — with better medicines, advanced infusion techniques, and supportive care, patients can tolerate treatment much better today.
How Chemotherapy Works?
Chemotherapy drugs circulate in the bloodstream, reaching cancer cells throughout the body (systemic treatment).
They work by damaging the DNA or interfering with the ability of cancer cells to divide.
Unlike surgery or radiation, which are local treatments, chemotherapy can treat cancer that has spread (metastatic disease).
How Chemotherapy is Given?
Intravenous (IV) infusion: Most common method, delivered via vein.
Oral chemotherapy pills: Convenient, taken at home.
Injection (subcutaneous or intramuscular).
Topical chemotherapy creams: Used for certain skin cancers.
Note: Chemotherapy is usually given in cycles (treatment followed by rest periods) to allow the body to recover.
Goals of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is not “one-size-fits-all.” It is tailored to each patient based on cancer type, stage, and health condition. Goals include:
Curative: Destroy cancer completely.
Adjuvant therapy: Kill hidden cancer cells after surgery/radiation.
Neoadjuvant therapy: Shrink tumors before surgery/radiation.
Palliative chemotherapy: Control advanced cancer, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Many patients worry most about side effects, but with modern supportive care, these are much better managed. Common side effects include:
Fatigue
Nausea and vomiting
Hair loss
Mouth sores
Low blood counts → risk of infections
Appetite loss
Important: Not everyone experiences severe side effects, and most are temporary. Doctors prescribe medicines (anti-nausea drugs, growth factors, nutritional supplements) to reduce side effects.
Life During Chemotherapy – What Patients Should Know
Diet and Nutrition: Eating small, frequent, balanced meals helps manage nausea and maintain energy.
Activity: Light exercise, like walking, can reduce fatigue.
Infection precautions: Since immunity can be low, hand hygiene and avoiding crowded places during peak low counts is advised.
Mental health: Counseling, meditation, and support groups can help reduce anxiety.
When to Contact Your Doctor During Chemotherapy
Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
Severe vomiting or diarrhea
Difficulty breathing
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Extreme fatigue that prevents daily activities
Advances in Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy has improved significantly.
Targeted delivery systems reduce damage to healthy cells.
Combination regimens are carefully designed to maximize benefits and reduce risks.
Daycare chemotherapy units in India allow patients to return home the same day.
Supportive medicines (antiemetics, growth factors, immune boosters) make treatment much more tolerable.
FAQs About Chemotherapy
Q1. Is chemotherapy painful?
No, the process of infusion is generally painless. Side effects, if any, are managed with medications.
Q2. Will I definitely lose my hair?
Not all drugs cause hair loss. Even if it happens, it’s temporary — hair usually grows back after treatment.
Q3. Can I work during chemotherapy?
Yes, many patients continue working, depending on how they feel. Resting and pacing yourself is important.
Q4. Is chemotherapy safe in India?
Yes, cancer centers in India follow international safety protocols. The drugs used are the same as in the US or Europe.
