Concurrent Chemo-Radiation

What is concurrent chemo-radiation?

Concurrent chemo-radiation uses radiotherapy and chemotherapy at the same time to treat cancer.

Radiotherapy is a common form of anti-cancer treatment that beams high-energy radiation particles directly onto cancer cells. The procedure destroys cancer cells using sophisticated computer targeting systems.

Chemotherapy, also known as cytotoxic drugs, is the name given to drugs that destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given together with radiation to enhance the effectiveness of radiation treatment.

In some cases, chemotherapy is given together with radiation to enhance the effectiveness of radiation treatment. This is known as concurrent chemo-radiation therapy.

Why do you need concurrent chemo-radiation?

Concurrent chemo-radiation therapy is typically used to cure cancer. This form of treatment may be appropriate if your cancer:

• Has not spread to distant organs
• Is deep-seated, not surgically accessible
• Is locally extensive and not amenable to surgery

Concurrent chemo-radiation therapy may also be used as a preventive treatment after surgery for some cancers.

What are the risks of concurrent chemo-radiation?

Concurrent chemo-radiation intensifies the possible side effects of both chemotherapy and radiation therapy such as:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Ulcers
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Diarrhoea
• Nerve damage

How do you prepare for concurrent chemo-radiation?

Your doctor will discuss your treatment plans and advise whether you should receive chemotherapy and radiation therapy sequentially or at the same time.

Prepare for each type of treatment and the effect of going through both types of therapies at the same time:

• Chemotherapy
• Conventional radiation therapy