What is preventative chemotherapy?
Princess Kate shared in a video message that she is undergoing preventative chemotherapy after a major abdominal surgery in January. While the exact cancer type is undisclosed, experts shed light on what this treatment might entail.
How does preventative chemo work?
Chemotherapy aims to kill cancerous cells using various drugs. While the term 'preventative chemotherapy' is not widely used, experts suggest it may refer to adjuvant chemotherapy, which helps prevent cancer recurrence after surgery.
When is preventative chemo needed?
Adjuvant chemotherapy is typically administered after surgery to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of tumors reoccurring. The treatment is crucial in cases where cancer cells may have been left behind post-surgery.
What are the side effects?
Chemotherapy can lead to a range of side effects, such as fatigue, hair loss, nausea, and damage to bone marrow. The severity and type of side effects vary depending on the chemotherapy drugs used and the individual's response.
How long is the recovery?
Patients usually begin recovering from chemotherapy side effects within a few months. However, the recovery time can vary from person to person and may take several months to regain full strength post-treatment.
