Chemotherapy for Stomach Cancer

When it comes to fighting stomach cancer, one of the most effective weapons in the arsenal of medical professionals is chemotherapy. This powerful treatment has been instrumental in helping countless individuals overcome this devastating disease, and it continues to be a vital part of cancer care today. But what exactly is chemotherapy, and how does it work to combat stomach cancer?

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses powerful medications to destroy cancer cells. These medications, known as cytotoxic drugs, work by targeting and killing cells that are rapidly dividing and growing, which is a hallmark of cancer cells. In the case of stomach cancer, chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with other treatments, such as surgery and radiation therapy, to provide a comprehensive approach to care. There are several different types of chemotherapy that can be used to treat stomach cancer, including:

Systemic Chemotherapy

This type of chemotherapy is administered through the bloodstream, allowing the medications to reach cancer cells throughout the body. Systemic chemotherapy is often used to treat stomach cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, as well as to reduce the risk of the cancer returning after surgery.

Regional Chemotherapy

This type of chemotherapy is administered directly to the stomach and surrounding tissues, allowing for a higher concentration of the medication to be delivered directly to the tumor site. Regional chemotherapy is often used to treat stomach cancer that is confined to the stomach and has not yet spread to other parts of the body.

Regardless of the type of chemotherapy used, the goal is the same: to kill cancer cells and prevent them from growing and multiplying. By doing so, chemotherapy can help to shrink tumors, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall quality of life for individuals with stomach cancer.

How Does Chemotherapy Work?

Chemotherapy works by targeting the DNA of cancer cells, which is responsible for their rapid growth and division. The cytotoxic drugs used in chemotherapy bind to the DNA, preventing the cells from dividing and growing. This ultimately leads to the death of the cancer cells, which can help to shrink tumors and alleviate symptoms. In addition to targeting cancer cells, chemotherapy also affects healthy cells, which is why side effects are a common occurrence. However, the goal of chemotherapy is to minimize the impact on healthy cells while maximizing the destruction of cancer cells.

Types of Chemotherapy Drugs

There are several different types of chemotherapy drugs that can be used to treat stomach cancer, including:

Fluorouracil (5-FU)

This drug is commonly used to treat stomach cancer, and works by inhibiting the production of thymidylate, a key component of DNA. Without thymidylate, cancer cells are unable to divide and grow.

Oxaliplatin

This drug works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, making it difficult for them to repair themselves and ultimately leading to their death.

Cisplatin

This drug works by binding to the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing.

In addition to these medications, there are many others that can be used to treat stomach cancer. The specific type and combination of chemotherapy drugs used will depend on the individual patient's needs and the specifics of their cancer.

What to Expect During Chemotherapy

Undergoing chemotherapy can be a daunting prospect, but knowing what to expect can help to alleviate some of the anxiety and uncertainty. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Side Effects

Chemotherapy can cause a range of side effects, including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and mouth sores. These side effects can vary in severity and duration, and may be more pronounced in some individuals than others.

Treatment Schedule

Chemotherapy is typically administered in cycles, with each cycle consisting of a treatment period followed by a rest period. The length of each cycle can vary, but most last several weeks.

Support During Treatment

It's essential to have a strong support system in place during chemotherapy, including family, friends, and medical professionals. This can help to alleviate anxiety and stress, and provide emotional support during a challenging time.

While chemotherapy can be a difficult and grueling process, it is a vital part of treating stomach cancer. By understanding how chemotherapy works and what to expect during treatment, individuals with stomach cancer can better navigate this journey and take control of their care.