Chemotherapy has been the go-to cancer treatment for decades, but is a new test about to spark a revolution?
Chemotherapy is certainly a mixed bag in the cancer world. while it’s transformed cancer treatment over the decades – having helped double UK cancer survival rates over the past 40 years – its unpleasant side effects often paint it in a negative light, with many sufferers desperate for an alternative. Could a new test spare women the agony of chemo? we speak to Caroline Geraghty, Information nurse at Cancer Research UK, to find out more…
The chemo effect
When chemotherapy was first used in the 1940s, it provided a lifeline for cancer sufferers, whose only previous option was surgery. it’s a systemic treatment, which means it works by circulating in your bloodstream, killing cancer cells almost anywhere in the body. it damages the genes inside the nucleus of the cells, often while they are in the process of dividing.
However, as it doesn’t distinguish between normal and cancerous cells, it can often affect healthy body tissues, which are also constantly growing and dividing, such as your hair, bone marrow, skin and the lining of your digestive system. this can result in horrible side effects, such as vomiting, diarrhoea, hair loss, dry, sore or itchy skin and mouth ulcers.
This story is from the July 23, 2018 edition of WOMAN - UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July 23, 2018 edition of WOMAN - UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
What's their SECRET?
Woman investigates how these stars are managing to age backwards
I've cried BUCKETS
Linda Robson on rehab, binge-drinking and her marriage breakdown
Phil and Steph back together!
They separated four years ago when he came out as gay live on This Morning.
The ROYAL INSIDER
PRINCE WILLIAM PUTS FAMILY FIRST
My husband's BATTLE TO BE A DAD
With a rare condition, could Jenna Greenaway's partner father children?
The dark side of PARADISE
Just how safe are our children when they decide to go travelling? Woman investigates
I'm still in SURVIVAL MODE
Kate Garraway on debt, the care system and why working 'really helps' her grief
Let's have an ADVENTURE!
Four women share the thrills of breaking out of their comfort zone
A short BREAK
It was just a few days away, but a chance encounter threw Kathy into turmoil
Dinner for ONE
Tasty ideas for solo dining that will leave you feeling satisfied