Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth. Drugs may be given intravenously (into a vein), orally (tablets or capsules), or in some cases directly into a body cavity. Chemotherapy can be used as the primary treatment, before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery to kill remaining cells (adjuvant), or alongside radiation therapy (chemoradiation). At Iswarya Cancer Centre, each patient's chemotherapy protocol is planned by a multidisciplinary tumour board.
🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed
- 1
A tumour board reviews the cancer type, stage, and patient health to select the optimal drug regimen.
- 2
A central line or PICC line may be inserted for IV access across multiple cycles.
- 3
Chemotherapy is administered on day 1 of each cycle (a cycle is usually 3–4 weeks).
- 4
Pre-medications (anti-nausea, steroids) are given before the main drugs.
- 5
The infusion session lasts 1–8 hours depending on the regimen.
- 6
Blood counts and organ function are checked before each cycle; cycles may be delayed if counts are low.
✅ Benefits of Chemotherapy
- ✓Can cure certain cancers (leukaemia, lymphoma, testicular cancer) even at advanced stages
- ✓Reduces tumour size before surgery (neoadjuvant) — may enable less radical surgery
- ✓Destroys microscopic cancer cells after surgery to reduce recurrence risk
- ✓Can palliate symptoms and improve quality of life in advanced cancer
- ✓Effective against cancer that has spread to multiple sites (metastatic disease)
📋 How to Prepare
- Dental check-up before starting chemotherapy to treat any existing infections.
- Have blood tests to establish baseline kidney, liver, and bone marrow function.
- Discuss fertility preservation options with your oncologist before starting (important for younger patients).
- Arrange for someone to drive you to and from infusion sessions.
- Stock up on easy-to-prepare foods, as cooking may be difficult on treatment days.
⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects
- Nausea and vomiting — well managed with modern anti-emetic medications
- Hair loss (alopecia) — temporary; hair regrows after treatment
- Fatigue — most significant side effect
- Increased risk of infection due to low white blood cell count (neutropenia)
- Mouth sores (mucositis), anaemia, and peripheral neuropathy depending on the drug used
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
💊 Post-Procedure Care
- Take anti-nausea medications as prescribed; don't wait until nausea is severe.
- Stay well-hydrated — drink 8–10 glasses of water daily.
- Avoid crowded places and contact with sick individuals during low white-cell periods.
- Report fever above 38°C, chills, or signs of infection immediately to the oncology team.
- Continue gentle activity — short walks help manage fatigue and maintain strength.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose all my hair?
Hair loss depends entirely on the drugs used. Some regimens cause complete hair loss; others cause only thinning. Hair typically regrows 3–6 months after completing treatment.
How many cycles of chemotherapy will I need?
This varies by cancer type and treatment goal. Common regimens range from 4 to 8 cycles, each lasting 3–4 weeks. Your oncologist will specify your plan.
Can I work during chemotherapy?
Many patients continue working, especially in the 1–2 weeks between cycles when side effects are minimal. Discuss your specific regimen and work type with your oncologist.
🏥 Chemotherapy at Iswarya Hospital
Iswarya Cancer Centre provides comprehensive oncology support with radiation therapy using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.