Advancements In Chemotherapy

Cancer care is constantly improving. Cancer researchers look for possible new treatments or ways to improve existing therapies.

Advances in chemotherapy have led to:

• increased survival rates for some cancers
• more intensive therapies (stronger medications, shorter treatments and higher doses) which may lead to longer periods of time the cancer is controlled
• different combinations of chemotherapy medications that work better together
• more than 50 medications being used; some have few side effects while others present major problems
• treatments that can be given at outpatient clinics, which shorten the time spent at a hospital
• oral medications can often replace intravenous medications
• more supportive care techniques

*Advancements in support care have also led to therapies that help lessen the side effects of chemotherapy.

Clinical trials test new treatments or treatment methods in people with cancer. Your doctor may discuss this with you to see if you are eligible to participate in a clinical trial.