At New England Cancer Specialists, we are committed to providing the most advanced cancer treatments available. One of these treatments is targeted therapy. It is a precise way to attack cancer cells while leaving healthy cells alone. Let’s dive into what targeted therapy is and how it can benefit you.
What is Targeted Therapy?
Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to target specific parts of cancer cells. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which attacks all fast-growing cells, targeted therapy aims only at cancer cells. This makes it more precise and often easier on your body.
How Does Targeted Therapy Work?
Targeted therapy works by focusing on specific molecules in cancer cells. These molecules help cancer cells grow and survive. By blocking these molecules, targeted therapy can:
- Stop Cancer Growth: Prevent cancer cells from growing and dividing.
- Cut Off Blood Supply: Block the blood vessels that feed cancer cells.
- Deliver Toxins to Cancer Cells: Carry drugs or other substances directly to the cancer cells to kill them.
Who Can Benefit from Targeted Therapy?
Targeted therapy is not for everyone, but it can be very effective for certain types of cancer. Some cancers that may benefit from targeted therapy include:
- Breast cancer
- Lung cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Leukemia
Your doctor will test your cancer cells to see if targeted therapy is a good option for you.
What Are the Side Effects of Targeted Therapy?
Like all treatments, targeted therapy can cause side effects. However, because it is more precise, it often has fewer side effects than chemotherapy. Some common side effects include:
- Fatigue
- Skin changes, like rash or dry skin
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure
Your doctor will watch for side effects and help manage them if they occur.
How is Targeted Therapy Given?
Targeted therapy can be administered in different ways:
- Pills: Many targeted therapies are available as pills that you take at home.
- Intravenous (IV) Infusion: Some treatments are given through a needle in your arm at the clinic.
Your doctor will decide the best way to give you targeted therapy based on your specific cancer and needs.
What Can I Expect During Treatment?
During targeted therapy, you will have regular appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress. Your healthcare team will check how well the treatment is working and adjust it if needed. The length of treatment varies depending on your cancer type and response to therapy.
Why Choose New England Cancer Specialists?
At New England Cancer Specialists, we provide personalized care for every patient. Our team of experts uses the latest research and technology to create a treatment plan tailored to you. We are here to support you every step of the way on your journey to better health.
If you have questions about targeted therapy or want to learn more, please contact us. We are here to help you understand your options and provide the best care possible. Together, we can take a targeted approach to fight cancer.
