Cochise Oncology

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How Does Chemotherapy Kill Cancer Cells?

Though you’re no doubt familiar with chemotherapy, you may know exactly what it is or how it works. Chemotherapy is one of several treatments we offer at Cochise Oncology, and our experienced oncologists will help you understand your options and pick the best path for you.

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a medical treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing and spreading. The specific drugs and treatment regimen used in chemotherapy will depend on several factors, including the type of cancer being treated, the stage of the cancer, and the overall health of the patient.

Chemotherapy can be used as a primary treatment for cancer, or it may be used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery and radiation therapy. At Cochise Oncology, we provide personalized treatments in a spa-like setting to give you the most effective treatment and most comfortable experience.

How Does Chemotherapy Work?

Chemotherapy drugs disrupt cancer cells’ ability to divide and grow. These drugs target rapidly dividing cells, which is a characteristic of cancer cells. When the drugs are introduced into the body, they circulate through the bloodstream and attack cancer cells throughout the body. Once inside the cancer cell, the drugs interfere with its ability to divide and replicate by damaging its DNA or other important cellular processes.

By killing cancer cells or stopping them from dividing and growing, chemotherapy can shrink tumors and slow or stop the spread of cancer. However, because chemotherapy drugs can also affect healthy cells, the treatment can have side effects.

What to Expect During Chemotherapy

You’ll most likely receive chemotherapy through an IV at our luxurious Sierra Vista facility. Most patients can drive themselves to and from their chemo appointments.

Each patient will have a unique treatment schedule based on the type and stage of their cancer. Typically, you will receive chemotherapy on a cycle that gives your body time to recover between treatments. The duration of chemotherapy can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on your body’s response.

You should expect to have some side effects from chemotherapy. The Cochise Oncology team will give you advice for managing these side effects, and we’ll adjust your treatment as necessary. The most common side effects of chemotherapy include the following:

Fatigue
Hair loss
Bleeding and bruising
Nausea and vomiting
Infection
Mood swings
Fertility problems

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

How Effective is Chemotherapy?

Multiple types of chemotherapy may be used for various cancers, and the chemo may be a patient’s primary treatment or just a supplement. With all these factors, the effectiveness of chemotherapy will vary for each patient. Overall, chemotherapy has proven an effective treatment option for many. Your oncologist at Cochise Oncology will help you determine if chemotherapy is right for you.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.