What are the different types of cancer treatments available?

What are the different types of cancer treatments available?

There are several types of cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Each has its own benefits and side effects.

Can you explain how chemotherapy works?

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It can be administered intravenously or orally and often affects both cancerous and healthy cells.

What are the side effects of radiation therapy?

Common side effects of radiation therapy include fatigue, skin irritation, and localized pain. The severity can vary based on the treatment area and dosage.

How does immunotherapy differ from traditional treatments?

Immunotherapy boosts the body's immune system to fight cancer, while traditional treatments like chemotherapy directly target cancer cells. Immunotherapy can be more targeted and may have different side effects.

Which treatment is considered the most effective?

The effectiveness of a treatment depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and individual patient factors. Often, a combination of treatments is used for the best outcome.