The four pillars of cancer treatment are surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Each of these treatments has its own strengths and weaknesses, and they work best when used in combination.
Surgery is one of the oldest and most common treatments for cancer. It involves removing the tumor or affected area, along with some surrounding healthy tissue, to ensure that all cancer cells have been removed. Surgery can be used to diagnose cancer, to stage cancer (determine how far it has spread), and to treat cancer.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other particles to destroy cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy is a drug treatment that uses chemicals to kill cancer cells. It is usually given as a series of intravenous (IV) infusions or as pills and capsules, and can be used to shrink tumors or slow cancer growth.
Targeted therapy is a newer type of treatment that uses drugs that specifically target certain types of cancer cells. It is often used in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, and is typically used to treat advanced cancers.
These four treatments are the main pillars of cancer treatment today. They can be used alone or in combination, depending on the type and stage of cancer. Each type of treatment has its own benefits and risks, so it's important to discuss these with your doctor before deciding on a treatment plan.