Understanding Chemotherapy: A Guide by Dr. Amit Saklani

Cancer is a challenging journey — physically, emotionally, and mentally. One of the most well-known treatments for cancer is chemotherapy, often referred to simply as “chemo.” While the word may sound scary to many, it's important to understand what chemotherapy really is, how it works, and what patients can expect.

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill rapidly growing cancer cells in the body. These drugs can be administered through various methods such as:

Intravenous (IV) infusion

Oral pills or capsules

Injections

Topical creams (for some skin cancers)

How Does Chemotherapy Work?

Cancer cells tend to grow and divide faster than normal cells. Chemotherapy drugs target these fast-growing cells and interrupt their ability to divide or grow, thereby killing them or stopping their spread.

Unfortunately, chemotherapy can also affect some healthy fast-growing cells, like those in the mouth, intestines, or hair follicles, which leads to side effects.

When is Chemotherapy Used?

Chemotherapy may be used at different stages of cancer treatment:

Curative Purpose — To eliminate cancer completely

Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy — Given before surgery to shrink the tumor

Adjuvant Chemotherapy — Given after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells

Palliative Chemotherapy — Used to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life in advanced stages

Common Cancers Treated with Chemotherapy

Breast Cancer

Lung Cancer

Colon and Rectal Cancer

Lymphoma and Leukemia

Ovarian Cancer

Head and Neck Cancer

Stomach Cancer

Prostate Cancer (in advanced stages)

Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy

While chemo is effective, it does come with temporary side effects, including:

Fatigue

Hair loss

Nausea and vomiting

Low immunity (low white blood cell count)

Mouth sores

Appetite changes

Anemia

What to Expect During Chemotherapy Treatment

Initial Consultation — Medical history review, cancer staging, and planning

Chemotherapy Sessions — Usually at a hospital or day-care center under supervision

Follow-up & Monitoring — Blood tests, imaging, and health checkups to track response

Depending on the type of cancer, patients may receive chemotherapy once a week, once in two weeks, or once in three weeks.

Caring for Yourself During Chemotherapy

Eat a balanced, nutritious diet

Stay hydrated

Avoid infections — wash hands frequently

Take plenty of rest

Talk to your doctor about supplements or medications

Report any severe or unusual symptoms immediately

Dr. Amit Saklani, a highly experienced DM Medical Oncologist at Patel Superspeciality Hospital, Jalandhar, offers personalized cancer care including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies.