Cancer treatments - chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of cancer may be taken as tablets or, more commonly, given by intravenous drip directly into a vein.

Many different drugs are available, which generally work by killing or slowing the growth of fast-growing cells. Cancers are made up of fast-growing cells. Other fast-growing cells, such as the cells that make up hair follicles, are also affected. This is why one of the side effects of chemotherapy is hair loss. Chemotherapy medications are also known as cytotoxic or anti-cancer medications.

Different uses of chemotherapy
Depending on individual factors such as the type of cancer, where it is and the person’s age and general health, chemotherapy may be used:

• As the only form of treatment
• Together with radiotherapy
• Before surgery to shrink the tumour
• After surgery to kill off any remaining cancer cells.

Aims of chemotherapy
The major aims of chemotherapy are to:

• Cure the cancer or increase the chance of cure
• Reduce symptoms and improve quality of life
• Improve survival.