What Are the Standard Types of Cancer Treatment?

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By JDW
eHow Contributing Writer

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Cancer can be a horrific disease that affects not only the patient, but the patient's loved ones. Given that every case is unique, it is important that people are aware of some of their treatment options so that they can begin to do the necessary research to inform and prepare themselves for what's to come.

Background

Cancer is the result of your cells dividing uncontrollably. It can spread to other parts of your body. There are more than 100 different forms of the disease.

Significance

According to the National Cancer Institute, there were 565,650 deaths and 1,437,180 new cases of cancer in 2008.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a chemical treatment that is designed to kill cancer cells. It can be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment. Side effects, ranging from very mild to severe, can result.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, uses radiation to damage the cells so that they can no longer multiply. This can also be used in tandem with other types of treatment.

Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal therapy can be used in some cases, such as prostate cancer, where blocking or introducing the release of certain hormones will halt the growth of the tumor.

Surgery

Surgery is common when the cancer is localized and hasn't spread to other parts of the body. It usually involves cutting out the tumor and any other relevant tissue.