How to Learn About Alternatives to Chemotherapy

Contributor

By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (1 Ratings)

Many people with cancer do not want to undergo chemotherapy, which introduces poisons or toxins into the body to damage, shrink or kill cancerous cells. Unfortunately, chemotherapy also can destroy healthy cells, leaving the patient weak or sickened. Follow these steps to explore some alternatives to chemotherapy.

How to Learn the Types of Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the process of using chemical therapy to destroy cancer living inside the body. Follow the… More
How to Learn Why Chemotherapy Works
Chemotherapy is just what it sounds like--the use of chemical agents, drugs or medications to treat cancer… More
How to Learn About Alternatives to Chemotherapy
Many people with cancer do not want to undergo chemotherapy, which introduces poisons or toxins into the b… More
How to Learn About New Technologies in Chemotherapy
Scientists continually develop new technologies to fight cancer. Follow these steps to learn about the lat… More
How to Know What to Ask Your Doctor About Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the name given to the treatment of cancer with anticancer drugs. There are many different … More
How to Learn About Other Treatments Used With Chemotherapy
In chemotherapy, doctors use medications to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction w… More
How to Research Chemotherapy Treatments
Chemotherapy treats cancer by using a potent combination of drugs to attack and kill cancer cells. Doctors… More

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Computer with Internet access

Learn About Alternatives To Chemotherapy

Step 1

Read about non-chemical cancer treatments at the American Cancer Society's page on types of cancer treatment (see Resources below). You will find information on surgery, radiation, immunotherapy, antiangiogenesis therapy and other options.
Step 2

Visit the National Cancer Institute's Web site (see Resources below) to learn about different cancer treatment methods, including radiation therapy, surgery, biological therapy and bone marrow transplants.
Step 3

Investigate holistic options. Many people have attempted to cure their cancer through changes in diet or herbal remedies. Research holistic and herbal cancer treatments at Medline Plus (see Resources below). However, you must remember that many reputable doctors doubt the efficacy of these treatments, and there is little scientific research to support their validity.
Step 4

Learn about clinical trials through information the National Cancer Institute. Clinical trials offer the latest cancer treatments, but they lack the proven history of other treatments.

Tips & Warnings

Ask your doctor about other drugs or hormones that can be administered in place of chemotherapy. Angiogenesis inhibitors, bone marrow transplants and biological therapy are alternatives to discuss.
Cancer patients have the right to refuse chemotherapy as a treatment.
The mental effects of cancer can be difficult to combat. Exercise can significantly lessen anxiety and depression caused by cancer treatment. Routine exercise can also increase strength and endurance and fight fatigue.

Who Can Help Sponsored