Your doctor should discuss treatment options with you and explain the benefits and risks involved. Following is an overview of some cancer treatments. For information about treating specific cancers, see types of cancer.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy (or “chemo”) is the use of anti-cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells. Combination therapy is when a number of drugs may be given at the same time.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is one of the main treatments for cancer.
Surgery
Surgery is one of the main treatments for cancer. It may be used by itself or with other cancer treatments.
Mastectomy
Treatment for breast cancer often involves surgery to remove part or all of the breast.
Complementary therapies
Complementary therapies may be used together with conventional medical treatments to support and enhance your quality of life and wellbeing.
Hormone therapy
Hormones are substances that are produced naturally in the body and affect how your body works.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that assists the body's immune system to fight cancer.
Clinical trials
A study that compares responses to different interventions in real settings, to test the effectiveness of medicines or other health measures.
Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy is a type of drug treatment. It attacks specific cancer cell features, known as molecular targets, to stop the cancer growing and spreading.
Palliative care
Palliative care is care that helps people live their life as fully and as comfortably as possible when living with a life-limiting or terminal illness.
Cancer-related side effects
Many people with cancer will experience some side effects. Side effects can be related to the type of cancer treatment you are having or the cancer itself.
Treatment options for advanced cancer
Advanced cancer means your cancer has spread or returned (recur) after treatment and is unlikely to be cured. Sometimes people’s cancer may be advanced when they are first diagnosed. Learn more about your treatment options for advanced cancer.
End-of-life care
If you have cancer diagnosed at a late stage, or treatment has stopped working, you may be told that the cancer is terminal or end stage. Maintaining quality of life is important and supportive care is available during this time. Find out more about end-of-life care.