Try adjusting your type
14th October, 2009
European Survey on Standards of Care in paediatric oncology centres. J. R. Kowalczyk, M. Samardakiewicz, K. Pritchard-Jones, R. Ladenstein, S. Essiaf, E. Fitzgerald, G. Petrarulo, G. Vassal - EJC , Volume 61, pp 11-19
8th December, 2014
The purpose of this website is to provide good and clear information about the long-term effects of childhood cancer and to refer to the various late-effects outpatient clinics (LATER outpatient clinics) that exist in the Netherlands.
8th September, 2015
Cancer in young people is rare, but it is still a major health issue in Europe. Each year, more than 6,000 young people in Europe die of cancer. There are more than 300,000 European childhood cancer survivors (in 2020, they will be nearly half a million): two-thirds of them have some late side effects of treatment, that are severe and impact on the daily life of half of those affected.
Chemotherapy is a medical treatment involving the use of powerful drugs to target and inhibit the rapid growth of cancer cells within the body. This approach aims to stop or slow down the progression of cancer by disrupting the cell division process and damaging the DNA of cancer cells, ultimately preventing their ability to replicate and spread. While chemotherapy’s effectiveness can vary depending on the type and stage of cancer, it plays a crucial role in the comprehensive treatment of cancer, often used in conjunction with other therapies like surgery, radiation, and targeted therapies.
Cancer, a complex group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, is a formidable health challenge worldwide. Chemotherapy, often simply referred to as “chemo,” is a mainstay in the battle against cancer. It involves the use of powerful drugs to kill or slow down cancer cells. While chemotherapy can be a crucial tool, it’s essential to understand its mechanics, potential side effects, and the benefits it can offer.
Chemotherapy disrupts the life cycle of rapidly dividing cancer cells, preventing them from multiplying further. It targets various stages of the cell cycle, aiming to eliminate cancerous cells.
Chemotherapy drugs come in different forms, including cytotoxic drugs that directly attack cells and targeted therapies that focus on specific molecular markers in cancer cells.
Chemotherapy can be administered orally, through injections, or intravenously. The delivery method depends on the type of cancer, the drugs used, and the patient’s overall health.
Chemotherapy’s impact on healthy cells can lead to a range of side effects, such as nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and weakened immunity.
Medical advancements have led to better management of side effects. Anti-nausea medications, supportive care, and lifestyle adjustments can alleviate many of these issues.
Some side effects, such as cognitive changes and fertility issues, may persist even after treatment ends. Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor and address long-term effects.
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Chemotherapy’s primary advantage lies in its ability to target cancer cells throughout the body, which is especially valuable in cancers that have spread.
In some cases, chemotherapy is used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells, reducing the risk of recurrence.
For advanced cancers, chemotherapy can improve quality of life by shrinking tumors and alleviating symptoms.
Advancements in genetics allow doctors to tailor chemotherapy to a patient’s genetic makeup, increasing its effectiveness.
Medical teams create individualized treatment plans, considering the type of cancer, its stage, and the patient’s overall health.
Combining chemotherapy with radiation therapy can enhance treatment outcomes in certain cancers.
Chemotherapy is often used in combination with immunotherapy or targeted therapy to create a synergistic effect against cancer cells.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition and light exercise can support the body during treatment.
Counseling and support groups play a crucial role in helping patients cope with the emotional challenges of chemotherapy.
Doctors consider factors such as the type and stage of cancer, overall health, and patient preferences when recommending chemotherapy.
Patients and their medical teams collaborate to make informed decisions about treatment, considering potential benefits and risks.
Chemotherapy is a multifaceted treatment modality that has revolutionized cancer care. While it comes with its challenges and side effects, its benefits are invaluable in the fight against cancer. Patients now have more personalized treatment options, and advancements in medical science continue to refine and enhance chemotherapy’s effectiveness. As you navigate the world of cancer treatment, remember that you are not alone—medical teams, support groups, and resources are available to guide you on your journey.
Chemotherapy is one of several treatment options available for cancer, depending on the type and stage of the disease.
While chemotherapy can lead to remission or significantly reduce tumor sizes, its ability to cure cancer depends on various factors.
Yes, targeted therapies and immunotherapies are alternatives that offer different approaches to treating cancer.
Not all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss. However, many do affect hair follicles, leading to temporary hair loss.
Your doctor can prescribe anti-nausea medications, and certain dietary adjustments may also help manage nausea.
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