Understanding Chemotherapy: Types, Uses & Administration

Chemotherapy, or "chemo," refers to treatments that fight cancer with chemicals. In use since the 1950s, chemo has time and again proven its effectiveness.

Purposes

• Chemotherapy can serve three different purposes: it may cure the cancer, stop the cancer from spreading or treat cancer's symptoms.

Administration

• Chemotherapy drugs may enter the body through pills, injections or, most commonly, through a tube called a catheter.

Place

• Depending on the type of chemotherapy, you may go to a doctor's office, a clinic or a hospital. Many chemotherapy patients visit hospitals as outpatients, and some can simply take pills at home.

Side Effects

• Chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells, so it may affect your blood, bone marrow, and hair cells. You may also experience nausea, dry skin and lack of sex drive.

Cost

• Cancer treatment can be pricey. Your doctor will know about the specific costs and where to find financial assistance, if needed.