How chemotherapy works: A guide for patients and families

We know that hearing the words cancer and chemotherapy can be daunting. Many people who are diagnosed with cancer have many questions at first, and there are also a lot of fears and concerns. In this article, we will talk about what chemotherapy is, how it works and what to expect to ease some of those uncertainties. 

Chemotherapy is the most commonly known cancer treatment and it’s also the most commonly used. We offer chemotherapy as one of the treatments at Harbour Cancer and Wellness. Everyone’s treatment is unique and your consulting doctor will design a care plan specifically for you.

What is chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy (often shortened to chemo) is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of rapidly dividing cells. Because cancer cells grow and divide more quickly than most healthy cells, they are especially targeted by the chemotherapy drugs.

Oncologists may recommend chemo as the main treatment for patients, or as a combination with other treatments, including surgery, hormonal therapy, radiation, or immunotherapy.

How does chemotherapy work?

Chemotherapy drugs travel through the bloodstream, which allows them to reach cancer cells almost anywhere in the body. They can:

• Stop cancer cells from dividing and spreading

• Destroy them completely

• Shrink tumours before surgery or radiation

• Eliminate remaining cancer cells after other cancer treatments

Because chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells, some healthy cells (like those in hair follicles, the digestive system, or bone marrow) can also be affected. This is why we see certain side effects in patients, like hair loss or nausea. However, most of these side effects are temporary and can be managed with support and new technology. 

How is chemotherapy given?

Chemotherapy can be administered in different ways, depending on the type of cancer, and the specific treatment plan:

• Intravenous (IV): the most common method, given through a vein via a device.

• Injection: similarly, this is directly into the muscle, or under the skin. 

• Oral: tablets or capsules that can be taken at home. 

• Topical: creams applied to the skin (less common).

Treatments are usually given in cycles, a period of treatment which is then followed by rest, to give the body time to recover. 

FAQs: What patients and families often ask

Q: How long does chemotherapy usually last?

This depends on the type of cancer, the specific chemotherapy drug being used, and the patient's treatment plan. Some courses last a few weeks, while others can extend over several months. Each patient's plan will be personalised for them. 

Q: What are the common side effects of chemotherapy?

Side effects vary, but the most common ones are fatigue, nausea, low immune function and, with some medications, hair loss. Not everyone experiences all of these, and many side effects can be reduced with supportive care. 

Q: Does chemotherapy cure cancer?

In some cases, chemotherapy can cure cancer. In other cases, it helps control the cancer by slowing its growth, shrinking tumours, or acting as a preventative for recurrence. Your oncologist will explain the overall goal of the treatment specifically for you.

Q: As a family member, how can I support someone going through chemo?

Emotional support, helping with small daily tasks, and simply being there can make a huge difference. Families and loved ones should also take the time to learn the types of treatments in the treatment plan so they know what to expect. 

Why chemotherapy remains essential in cancer care

Despite some newer treatments making their way into cancer care, chemotherapy continues to play an important role in oncology. It's effective against many different types of cancers, and it is usually combined with other types of treatments for a personalised treatment plan.

Chemotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Oncologists carefully decide the type of administration, the amount, and the timeline to fit each individual patient. This means balancing the effectiveness of the treatment with your quality of life.

Final thoughts

A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but learning how chemotherapy works can help patients and families feel more prepared for what's to come. Understanding its purpose, how it works, and its potential side effects can make it easier to approach treatment with confidence. 

At Harbour Cancer and Wellness, we are always here to support you through each and every stage of your cancer treatment. If you or your loved one is about to undergo chemotherapy treatment, reach out to our team to learn more about the support and services available to you.