By Abiha Afzaal
Chemotherapy. Steadily increasing over the years, it is one of the most widely used forms of cancer treatment, used in 57.7% of cases just in 2018. Many may have heard of chemotherapy before but what is the procedure, how does this diminish cancer, and what are the short-term and long-term impacts?
Preparation for this critical procedure involves several vital steps. Healthcare professionals may recommend the surgical insertion of a catheter or similar device for intravenous drug delivery, a series of tests to ensure the body's readiness, and dental evaluations to prevent infections. Emotional support is also vital for patients who may experience stress and anxiety. Properly informing them about potential side effects and risks can help alleviate concerns.
The chemotherapy procedure starts by giving the patient a dose of powerful drugs either orally or intravenously. The purpose of this is to disrupt the division and growth of fast-replicating cancer cells throughout the body. Administration of drugs occurs in 1-3 week cycles, ensuring rest and recovery is also accommodated. A combination of drugs is used for this procedure, typically consisting of alkylating agents such as busulfan and altretamine. In Each 1-6 hour session, the patient’s blood count is monitored due to the tendency of chemo drugs to reduce the number of blood cells and platelets in the body. By doing this, doctors ensure there are no problems or dangers before continuing treatment.
The short-term effects of chemotherapy can be challenging for patients undergoing cancer treatment. Immediately after days to weeks of starting chemotherapy, individuals often experience a range of side effects. For instance, effects include hair loss, changes in appetite, vomiting, fatigue and nausea. It can also lead to a drop in blood cell counts, as mentioned before, increasing the risk of infection, anaemia, and bleeding issues. These side effects can vary depending on the specific drugs and treatment regimen used, but healthcare providers often prescribe medications and provide support to help manage these symptoms. While these short-term effects can be uncomfortable and distressing, they are typically temporary, and most patients find relief and improvement as they progress through their treatment cycles.
While short-term effects are well-known, long-term implications can persist beyond treatment completion, with a substantial impact on patients. Some long-term effects may persist for months or even years. These effects can vary widely depending on the specific chemotherapy drugs used and the individual patient's response. Typical long-term effects include the risk of developing secondary tumours, fertility issues and even cognitive changes in the brain referred to as ‘’chemo brain’. Chemotherapy can also lead to cardiovascular problems, such as a weakening of the heart muscle, as well as damage to the liver, lungs and kidneys. Few patients may additionally experience ongoing neuropathy, a condition causing numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. Due to the risk of such long-term effects, cancer survivors must be regularly monitored and receive follow-up care. This ensures that the person can have the best quality of life after cancer treatment.
Overall, despite the journey of chemotherapy being long and at times arduous, it serves as a vital lifeline, offering patients hope and the potential for a cancer-free future. As there are continual advancements in medicine in the future we become closer to minimising the side effects of treatment and maximising its efficacy. As we look ahead, the goal remains steadfast: to improve the lives of cancer patients, provide relief from the grasp of this formidable disease, and work tirelessly toward a world where cancer is but a distant memory.
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