Treating cancer in children and adolescents: As little as possible, as much as necessary
When treating cancer in children and adolescents, doctors always follow the principle of “as little as possible, as much as necessary”. The objective is to cure patients of their cancer. But after they are cured they should also be able to enjoy as much quality of life as possible. This balance is also a particular challenge for doctors when weighing up different treatment methods to combat cancer in childhood and adolescents. The following treatment methods are usually used to treat children and adolescents with cancer:
Surgery
Surgical removal is commonly used in the treatment of cancer. The aim is here is to remove as much of the tumour as possible while damaging as little healthy tissue as possible. The operation is a precise and careful procedure that is carried out by highly qualified surgeons. The objective is to remove the tumour completely and in this way to cure the cancer.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses beams of intense energy to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. Thanks to progress in medical technology it is now possible to direct the radiation more accurately, sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. Radiation therapy is only used for children and adolescents if it is absolutely necessary because it can increase the risk of effects such as heart disease, impaired hearing, kidney damage and exhaustion later in life.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medications to combat or slow the growth of cancer cells throughout the body. It can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy. The type of chemotherapy is selected on the basis of the type of cancer and the stage of the disease. In children and adolescents who are still growing and developing, the dosage is adapted very carefully in order to maximise its efficacy while at the same time minimising side effects. The most common side effects of chemotherapy include digestive disorders, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and hair loss.
SPOG devotes all its efforts to researching cancer in children and adolescents. But our work would not be possible with the generous support of our donors. Every donation helps to ensure that we can provide the best possible treatment for our young patients. Please help us to give a better future to children and adolescents with cancer. Every donation counts.
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