The main treatments for cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

Surgery

Surgery is used to remove tumors. According to the American Cancer Society, curative surgery is the removal of a tumor when it appears to be confined to one area.  Abnormal cells may also be destroyed using freezing techniques known as cryosurgery, or with laser surgery. Be sure to speak with your doctor about specific surgical treatments.

Chemotherapy

According to the National Cancer Institute, chemotherapy is the treatment of cancer with drugs that can destroy cancer cells. This type of therapy helps to destroy abnormal cells and prevent them from multiplying or affecting other areas of the body. Healthy cells may be harmed during chemotherapy, and when this occurs, the person undergoing treatment experiences side effects.

Radiation Therapy

According to the National Cancer Institute, radiation therapy uses energy to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation damages the cells’ genetic material, making it impossible for them to grow and divide. Although radiation damages both cancer cells and normal cells, most normal cells can recover from the effects of radiation. The goal of radiation therapy is to damage as many cancer cells as possible, while limiting harm to nearby healthy tissue.

Immunotherapy

This “natural” therapy uses the body’s own immune system to fight diseases, including cancer.

This type of therapy is a new form of cancer treatment, and it is thought to be most effective when treating small cancers. Please speak with your doctor or health care professional about specific information related to cancer treatment. Your doctor will work with you and/or your loved one to ensure the best treatment for the patient’s particular form of cancer.  

Prevention

One of the best ways to prevent certain cancers is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The American Cancer Society recommends that people avoid smoking, avoid the harmful rays of the sun, choose foods with less fat and more fiber, and exercise regularly.

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