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Cancer treatments

There is no single, simple, reliable treatment that can be used for all types of cancer. Your doctor will get as much information as they can to work out a treatment plan especially for you. As well as the type, location and extent of spread of your cancer, they’ll also take into account things like your age and general health.
 
Treatment can be aimed at
    remission  -  partial or complete removal of cancer from your body
    cure   -  completely removing or destroying all cancer cells
    control  -  stopping or slowing down the multiplication of cells
    palliation  -  reducing symptoms such as pain or nausea caused by the cancer or its treatment.
 
There are three main methods of treating cancer, used alone or in combination
    surgery   -   the cancer cells or tumour are physically removed from the body 
    radiotherapy   -   radiation is used to destroy the cancer cells within a localised area 
    chemotherapy  -   cell toxic drugs are used to destroy or inhibit the growth of cells throughout the body
 
Hormone therapy can be used where the cancer is sensitive to the hormone balance in your body - such as cancers of the breast, prostate and uterus. The hormones are given by tablet or injection.
 
Adjuvant therapy is the term used when chemotherapy or radiotherapy is used in addition to definitive surgery.
 
You will have time to talk with your partner and those close to you about all your options and concerns.
 
Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor and treatment team questions. It can help to write out a list before seeing your doctor. You may want to know about what the goal of your treatment is, how it will be done and possible side effects. You might like to talk to your GP as well.
 
Talking to someone can be helpful too. We encourage you to call Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20 to talk with a Nurse/Health Counsellor.

Find services
Go to our Online library - Care and support section  
Read Guide to cancer services in Adelaide 
 
Find out more  
Lab Tests Online - this new site describes clinical lab tests that are part of routine care as well as diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of conditions and diseases
 
Are there new cancer treatments being researched?
Research into new cancer treatments is always happening - if a new treatment looks promising, they are investigated with clinical trials.

What about non-conventional treatments?
Complementary therapies are supportive approaches which can improve the well-being and quality of life of people with cancer. 


 


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