Cochise Oncology

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How Effective is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is one of the most widely used treatments for cancer, but just how effective is it?

At Cochise Oncology, we offer expert chemotherapy treatment and provide the support you need to keep your body and mind strong during therapy.

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy or chemo is a treatment that uses chemical substances to destroy fast-growing cancer cells in your body. Chemotherapy is most often used to treat cancer because it targets cells that multiply and divide quickly. There are different types of chemotherapy drugs available to treat the various types of cancer.

Chemotherapy medications are usually delivered intravenously, a process that can take several hours. Oral chemotherapy in the form of pills or liquids is also available. The option chosen will depend on the type, grade, and stage of the cancer being treated.

How Effective is Chemotherapy?

The goal of cancer treatment is to destroy the cancer cells and stop the disease from spreading. Cancer cells typically multiply faster than normal cells, and chemotherapy prevents cancer cells from growing and dividing, thereby halting the progression of the disease.

The effectiveness of chemotherapy treatment varies depending on the type of cancer and how advanced it is. Some patients have cancer that responds well to chemotherapy, so there is no evidence of the disease when their course of treatment is complete. Chemotherapy may also slow cancer growth in other patients, and symptoms will subsequently have to be controlled with additional therapies.

Chemotherapy can be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to eliminate persistent cancer cells and reduce the chance of cancer recurring.

Chemotherapy may be the only treatment some patients need, but more often, it’s done in conjunction with surgery or radiation.

Carrying out follow-up tests after each round of chemo is the best way to evaluate the effectiveness of your chemotherapy treatment. After chemotherapy, patients may experience complete or partial remission, or in some cases, cancer may stabilize.

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.

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Although chemo can effectively target cancer cells, the treatment may also damage healthy cells and cause a range of side effects. Hair loss, fatigue, mood swings, infection, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy.

Importance of a Chemotherapy Plan

The team at Cochise Oncology will work with you to set up a chemotherapy treatment plan based on the type of cancer, size of the tumor, your age, and overall health. These factors will determine the type and dosage of chemotherapy medications included in treatment and how often they are given. Chemo drugs are used in combination with one another or with other therapies to achieve the best results.

Chemotherapy treatment can:

Destroy cancer cells
Prevent cancer cells from multiplying
Reduce symptoms and improve quality of life

A course of chemotherapy can take several months and is typically done in two to six-week cycles.

At Cochise Oncology, we use the most advanced chemotherapy research in accordance with NCCN guidelines to select the best treatment protocol 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.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to learn more about cancer? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page. We look forward to meeting you!