Subtitle:Types of Cancer Treatment
Cancer is a complex disease that requires a variety of treatments to combat it. Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, the treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Some treatments may be used in combination, and additional treatments may be recommended. Here are four of the most common types of treatments used to fight cancer.
Surgery
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for cancer, as it can be used to remove the tumor or the entire affected area. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, surgery may be used to remove a tumor, lymph nodes, and/or some surrounding tissue. For certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer, surgery may be used to remove the entire affected area.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. These drugs can be taken orally or intravenously and are used in combination to attack the cancer cells. Chemotherapy is usually used in conjunction with other treatments, such as surgery and radiation therapy.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy can be used to target specific areas of the body, or it can be used to treat the entire body. It is most often used in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and surgery.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is the use of drugs to boost the body's natural immune system to fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy is usually used in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It has been shown to be effective in treating some types of cancer, such as melanoma and lung cancer.