Ask A Doctor - Oncology/Hematology

---

Q.
What is Chemotherapy and how does it work?
A.
Chemotherapy is the use of medications to destroy rapidly-dividing cancerous cells. These medications can be administered orally or intravenously and generally involve a combination of drugs depending on the type of cancer being treated. The side effects of chemotherapy vary not only with the type of drugs being administered but, from patient to patient. While hair loss is among the more commonly recognized side effects, it doesn’t happen to everyone. And, it certainly shouldn’t influence treatment decisions. The best approach to chemotherapy is understanding its benefits in treating cancer, being informed as to possible side effects and working closely with your oncologist to minimize any adverse reactions. Remember, not everyone experiences side effects and for those who do, they generally subside once treatments have ended.

---

Q.
I have recently been diagnosed with cancer. Why is it important that my oncologist be involved with a research program?
A.
When an oncologist is involved with a research program, he/she must, by necessity, be in touch with the most updated information and be in regular contact with national and international leaders in the field. This guarantees that you will have access to the latest treatments, some of which might not be generally available for years. Furthermore, the standards required to maintain a research program guarantee the most experienced nursing supervision and the closest monitoring of side effects and disease status, whether it be improvement or progression. Lastly, you will be sure that when new treatments become available, your doctor, as a participant in a research program, will be among the first who is able to obtain these for you.

---

Q.
I can’t believe I have cancer; how can I deal with this?
A.
Hearing the words, “The biopsy shows cancer,” is a traumatic experience for most people. Often, the first response is to shut down; you literally don’t hear any of the words that follow. But cancer is more treatable and curable than ever before. Follow your doctor’s recommendations which usually include a referral to a surgical or medical oncologist. Have a supportive family member or friend accompany you. Feel free to take notes so you can review what’s been discussed and make sure you “heard it right.” Gather information so you can be an active participant in the decision-making process but be selective. In this Information Age, there’s helpful, not-so-helpful, and just-plain-wrong information! Your oncologist’s practice may have on-site options for education and support through oncology certified nurses, therapists and support groups or can make recommendations to help you find the assistance you need. And always remember... You are not alone!

---