Understanding Cancer Medicines: Types, Uses, and Benefits
By Delhi Cancer Centre
Cancer treatment has evolved significantly, with a wide range of medicines designed to target cancer cells effectively while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. Understanding the different types of cancer medicines can help patients and caregivers make informed treatment decisions.
1. Types of Cancer Medicines
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill fast-growing cancer cells. It is often used to shrink tumors before surgery, destroy remaining cancer cells after treatment, or manage advanced cancers.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules and pathways that cancer cells use to grow and spread. It is more precise than chemotherapy, reducing damage to healthy cells.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. It includes checkpoint inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and cancer vaccines.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy blocks or lowers hormones that fuel certain cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer. It helps slow or stop cancer growth.
Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplant
This treatment replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells, often used for blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.
Supportive Medications
These include pain relievers, anti-nausea drugs, and medications to boost immunity or manage side effects of cancer treatments.
2. Uses of Cancer Medicines
- Destroy or slow down cancer cell growth.
- Reduce tumor size before surgery or radiation therapy.
- Prevent cancer recurrence after primary treatment.
- Control symptoms and improve quality of life in advanced cancer stages.
3. Benefits of Cancer Medicines
- Increases survival rates by effectively targeting cancer cells.
- Offers non-surgical treatment options for various cancer types.
- Enhances the effectiveness of other treatments like radiation and surgery.
- Personalized medicine options based on genetic and molecular testing.
4. Choosing the Right Cancer Treatment
The choice of cancer medicine depends on several factors, including:
- Type and stage of cancer.
- Overall health and pre-existing conditions.
- Genetic markers and specific tumor characteristics.
- Potential side effects and expected treatment outcomes.
5. Why Choose Delhi Cancer Centre for Cancer Treatment?
- Expert oncologists specializing in personalized cancer treatment plans.
- Access to advanced therapies, including precision medicine and immunotherapy.
- Comprehensive patient support, including symptom management and counseling.
- Cutting-edge research and clinical trials for the latest cancer treatments.
Consult with our specialists at Delhi Cancer Centre to explore the best treatment options for you.