Most people with cancer pass away from the complications of their cancer rather than cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy.
It’s extremely difficult to determine whether there’s a correlation between chemotherapy and life expectancy due to the many variables involved, such as:
- the type of cancer you have
- the stage and spread of your cancer
- how your body has responded to chemotherapy and other treatments (such as surgery and radiation treatment)
- the short and long-term side effects you’ve experienced from chemotherapy (and other treatments)
- your age and overall health
Yet another variable that should be taken into consideration is the reason why you’re having chemotherapy. Is the goal to cure your cancer? Or is it palliative, intended to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life?
The best way to estimate your survival rate after undergoing chemotherapy (or other cancer treatments) is to have a frank conversation with your doctor or oncologist. They can offer an individualized estimate based on all the factors noted above.
While chemotherapy is highly effective at killing cancer cells, it can also damage healthy cells, potentially leading to long-term health issues.
This is particularly true for people who’ve survived childhood cancers.
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Although chemotherapy is an effective treatment for many types of cancer, it may not be recommended for everyone.
Your doctor may choose to postpone chemotherapy or not use it at all if you:
- are in the first 3 months of pregnancy
- have low levels of red or white blood cells
- have an ongoing infection
- have severe kidney or liver disease
- have an open wound
- have recently had surgery
If you’re concerned about the short or long-term
Most side effects from chemotherapy can be managed with medication or adjustments to your dosage.
Share your concerns with your doctor before undergoing chemotherapy and before every chemo cycle. They can work with you to manage short-term side effects and prevent long-term side effects.