Chemotherapy

How does chemotherapy work?

Chemotherapy drugs work by damaging the cancer cells' ability to reproduce (divide) and grow. As the chemotherapy drugs cycle round the bloodstream, the cancer cells eventually die off.

Chemotherapy is given as a course of treatment, with the length of the chemotherapy treatment split into individual cycles of treatment. Both the course and cycle(s) of each chemotherapy treatment are dependent on the specific type of cancer to be treated. A course of chemotherapy can typically last between 3-6 months, while the cycles within timeframe tend to last 3-4 weeks at a time. Breaks are given in-between chemotherapy cycles, to allow the body time to recover. Individual chemotherapy treatment sessions that are delivered intravenously (via a port), may take several hours, but in some cases, up to a full day. Our chemotherapy nurses will be able to discuss with you in detail how long each treatment will take, so you can have an idea of what to expect.

As chemotherapy drugs affect both cancerous and healthy cells, side effects are expected. Some patients have said that the side effects are the hardest part of receiving chemotherapy treatment. However, not all chemotherapy patients experience every possible side effect and, any healthy cells that are affected will fully recover following treatment. Our consultants and clinical teams will always be on-hand for you, to discuss potential side effects and answer any questions you may have about managing them.

We're here for you

It’s important that you feel supported, not only during your treatment but also afterwards, to give your body the best possible chance to heal.

After treatments your recovery will be supported by regular follow-up checks with your consultant. These will vary depending on the area of your body that's been treated, and the amount of treatment you've received. Follow-up appointments are used to help keep track of your recovery, so if you have any concerns you will have the opportunity to discuss them with your consultant.

The diagnosis of cancer combined with possible side effects can affect how you feel. Your treatment team is here to support you, and we encourage you to talk to us. Sometimes just talking about your emotions can be of great help and if necessary, we can arrange for further advice and support.

Macmillan Cancer Support offers a wide range of information and support, as well as help with your practical, emotional, and financial needs. All telephone helplines are free and confidential, and interpreting services are also available.

If you have cancer, it's understandable you might be worried about coronavirus. Here is the latest guidance from Macmillan.

Freephone: 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 8.00pm)
www.macmillan.org.uk