Q. Is immunotherapy the best cancer treatment to date, or is chemotherapy more reliable?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Both immunotherapy and chemotherapy are two of the most common cancer treatments currently available. When it comes to deciding between them, it really depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as a person's overall health.
Immunotherapy is a form of treatment that uses substances to stimulate or suppress the immune system in order to fight off diseases such as cancer. Immunotherapy has been dubbed “the future” by many experts due its targeted approach aimed at specific cancers cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue and organs. It also has fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy due to its more exact targeting of malignant cells. Despite these benefits, it is important to be aware that immunotherapy does not work for all types of cancers nor does it guarantee success for every patient; clinical trials are being done across the world with varying results depending on each person's circumstances.
Chemotherapy works by destroying rapidly-dividing malignant cells which makes it suitable for treating certain types of cancerous tumors (such as those located in large concentrations). It can also be used alongside radiotherapy when further destruction needs to take place within an area but with less intensity than radiation alone could provide; this combination therapy can both shrink tumors and prevent further metastasis - where malignant cells spread throughout other parts of your body - from taking place. Unfortunately, this method can often have harsh side effects including hair loss, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue etc., making it difficult for some patients move forward with their treatment plan despite its reliability in fighting off various forms cancer if administered correctly.
Ultimately then there is no single answer as far finding best way combat this disease: each patient must weigh up the potential benefits against any potential risks before deciding what course action take next based on their individual set circumstances. Your doctor will do their best guide you through process understanding your own personal situation so always ensure get second opinion regardless what end decide go down!