Why is chemotherapy treatment needed?

Chemotherapy is the use of various chemical drugs to control the growth and spread of cancerous cells affecting any organ of the body. There are different chemotherapy regimens (i.e. a standardized combination of multiple chemotherapy drugs for treatment of specific types of cancers). Chemotherapy has systemic effects as most of the drugs are given intravenously and pass through the blood stream. Chemotherapy treatment is used in conjunction with radiation therapy and surgery to increase the overall outcome on the patient’s health. Chemotherapy treatment is given with the intention of either cure or palliation (i.e. reducing the intensity of the symptoms). Further, the treatment is also given prior to surgery (Neo-adjuvant) to reduce the size of the tumor to make surgical intervention more effective or after surgery (adjuvant) when metastasis is suspected.

Chemotherapy treatment protocols
• Prior to the treatment, the patient’s medical condition is thoroughly evaluated. Evaluation includes cardiovascular assessment, dental check ups, medication history, etc. The patient is also subjected to a host of imaging studies to assess the extent of spread of the cancer.
• After evaluation, most drugs are given intravenously (few are given orally) in cycles lasting from about two to four weeks. Dosage calculations are mathematically calculated based on the weight and height of the patient.

Side effects of the cancer treatment
There are several side effects of chemotherapy treatment given for management of cancers,
• Depression of the immune system making the patient susceptible to infections
• Fall in the blood cell count resulting in symptoms like weakness and fatigue.
• Gastric disturbances which include nausea, vomiting, heartburns, constipation or diarrhea with additional symptoms like weight loss and loss of appetite
• Thinning and loss of hair is one of the most commonly known side effects
• The treatment can also have systemic effects on the heart, lungs and the kidneys
• Central nervous disorders and impotency is occasionally observed.

Chemotherapy treatment in Mexico
Chemotherapy treatment is stressful and very expensive affair. Mexico has gained reputation in the recent years for its international quality of medical care at low and affordable cost.

Author is a content writer and medical tourism management expert. In this article author discuss about low cost chemotherapy treatment options abroad and various international locations where you can get
affordable chempotherapy abroad. For more information visit www.medicaltourismco.com

Article Source: Affordable Chemotherapy Treatment Options Abroad