Cancer Therapies

Cancer Matrix

Cancer Therapies

There are many types of cancer treatment, and your doctor may use one or a combination depending on your cancer type, stage, and overall health. Treatments include:

  • Surgery (removing the cancer)
  • Chemotherapy (using medicine to kill cancer cells)
  • Radiation therapy (using energy beams to target cancer)
  • Immunotherapy (helping your immune system fight cancer)
  • Targeted therapy (attacking specific cancer cells)
  • Hormone therapy (blocking hormones that help cancer grow)
  • Stem cell transplant (replacing damaged cells with healthy ones)

Each treatment works differently and may have different side effects. Cancer GPS helps you understand how these treatments work, what to expect, and how to prepare—so you can feel more confident and informed.

Useful Links

1. — MD Anderson $

2. — National Cancer Institute $

3. — Mayo Clinic $

4. — Cancer Treatment Centers of America $

5. — American Cancer Society $

FAQ

What are the main treatments?
  • Surgery removes the cancer from your body.
  • Chemotherapy uses strong medicine to kill cancer cells.
  • Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to shrink or destroy cancer.
  • Immunotherapy helps your immune system find and fight cancer cells.
  • Targeted therapy attacks cancer cells with specific features, leaving healthy cells alone.
  • Hormone therapy blocks hormones that help certain cancers grow.
  • Stem cell transplant replaces damaged cells with healthy ones, often used in blood cancers.
How do doctors pick my treatment?

Doctors look at:

  • Type of cancer
  • Stage (how far it has spread)
  • Your overall health
  • National treatment guidelines They may also consider your personal goals and preferences. You can always ask why a certain treatment is recommended.
What is targeted therapy?

Targeted therapy is a treatment that looks for specific markers on cancer cells. It attacks only those cells, which means fewer side effects than chemotherapy. It’s often used for cancers with known genetic changes.

What is immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy helps your body’s immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells. It doesn’t work for everyone, but it can be very effective for certain cancers like melanoma or lung cancer.

Can treatments be combined?

Yes. Many patients receive more than one type of treatment. For example:

  • Chemotherapy + radiation
  • Surgery + immunotherapy
  • Targeted therapy + hormone therapy Your care team will create a plan that’s best for your cancer and your body.
What side effects should I expect?

Side effects depend on the treatment. Common ones include:

  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Hair loss
  • Changes in appetite
  • Weakened immune system Your doctor will explain what to expect and how to manage side effects. Always speak up if something feels wrong.
What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments. They may give you access to promising therapies not yet widely available. Ask your doctor if there’s a trial that fits your cancer type and stage.

Will treatment cure my cancer?

Sometimes, yes. In other cases, treatment may:

  • Control the cancer
  • Shrink tumors
  • Improve your quality of life Your doctor will explain the goals of your treatment plan.
What lifestyle changes can help?

Healthy habits can support your treatment:

  • Eat nutritious foods
  • Stay active (as you’re able)
  • Get enough rest
  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol These changes can help your body recover and feel stronger.
Can alternative therapies help?

Some complementary therapies can help with symptoms:

  • Acupuncture for nausea or pain
  • Yoga for stress and flexibility
  • Meditation for anxiety Always talk to your doctor before starting any alternative therapy to make sure it’s safe with your treatment.

How AskBernie Helps

Cancer treatments can be confusing—but AskBernie is here to help. Bernie can:

  • Break down complex treatments like chemotherapy or immunotherapy into simple, easy-to-understand language.
  • Help you compare treatment options and side effects.
  • Suggest questions to ask your doctor about your care plan.
  • Explain what clinical trials are and how to find one.
  • Help you understand how lifestyle changes and complementary therapies can support your treatment.

AskBernie is your personal guide to understanding cancer therapies—so you can feel informed, empowered, and ready for what’s ahead.

Help Support Cancer GPS

Cancer GPS is a 501(c)(3) organization, and your donations allow us to keep providing services to cancer patients and their families. Thank you for your continued support.

Donate Now