Chemotherapy Treatment in Dubai
At CMC Hospital Dubai our Chemotherapy Unit is led by UK & French Board Certified Medical Oncologists experienced in the latest advanced chemotherapy treatment protocols. Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment designed to kill cancer, which are abnormal cells that grow rapidly and divide faster than other cells in body. The procedure is usually used in combination with other treatments such as surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy.
Overview
Combination therapy is used depending on:
- Patient’s overall health
- Previous cancer treatments one has ever had
- Patient’s personal treatment preferences
- The stage and type of cancer one has
- The location of the cancer cells
The Need for Chemotherapy
To reduce current symptoms
- To shrink the tumor
- To reduce the likelihood of cancer spreading or returning
- To lower the total number of cancer cells in the patient’s body
- To prepare individuals with bone marrow cell treatment, and it may be used for immune system disorders
Preparation for Chemotherapy
Since chemotherapy can have side effects, it is important for one to plan ahead before beginning the treatment. The doctor will always help the patient anticipate the potential problems associated with treatment.
One will have to undergo a series of tests before the procedure to determine if he/she is healthy enough for it. The tests may include examinations of the heart and blood tests to determine the health of the liver. The tests are also meant to guide the doctor in deciding which types of chemotherapy to use in the patient’s treatment.
Additionally, before starting chemotherapy, the doctor could advise scheduling an appointment with the dentist. Chemotherapy interferes with the body’s natural ability to heal, so any gum or tooth infection runs the risk of spreading to the rest of the body.
How Chemotherapy Works
The doctor and the patient often work together to consider all variables and determine the suitable course of treatment.
Typically, chemotherapy is administered intravenously (via an injection into a vein) or orally. Chemotherapy can be given in a variety of ways in addition to these two kinds.
Options for administering chemotherapy include the following:
- Depending on where the tumor is, chemotherapy can be administered straight into the tumor, and the doctor may implant slow-dissolving disks that gradually release drugs if the patient has surgery to remove the tumor
- Some skin cancers are often treated with chemotherapy creams.
- Chemotherapy can be administered locally to a particular area of the body, such as the abdomen, chest, or bladder through the urethra.
- Chemotherapy intravenous infusions using an implantable port
FAQ's
What are the latest developments in chemotherapy treatment protocols?
New advances in cancer treatment are based on better information about the genetic mutations in tumors and markers that can indicate better response to specific therapies. This is referred to as precision medicine. In some cases genetic testing of a tumor can indicate that chemotherapy is not necessary (for example in some types of early stage breast cancer that can be treated by surgery, radiation therapy and hormone therapy without the need for chemotherapy.
How do you decide I need chemotherapy?
The recommendation to take chemotherapy at CMC is made by an oncologist in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team who will review all the details of your case and the latest clinical evidence and international guidelines. Chemotherapy is sometimes given to shrink tumors be fore surgery, to reduce the chance of cancer returning after surgery, or to shrink and control more advanced disease.
How much does chemotherapy cost in UAE?
The cost of Chemotherapy in the UAE varies greatly anywhere from hundreds of Dirham to thousands of Dirham per cycle, according to the treatment protocol which is customised to each individual's cancer. The combination of drugs, the number of cycles, the effectiveness, potential side effects that occur, mean there are many changing elements that factor into chemotherapy cost in the UAE. Chemotherapy Cost in Dubai at CMC Hospital may be covered by insurance, but you need to check with your health insurance provider.
What is chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
How is chemotherapy given?
Chemotherapy is usually given intravenously through a temporary cannula in the hand or forearm, or through a port in the patient's chest. Sometimes chemotherapy is given orally by tablets or capsules.
What are the side effects of chemotherapy?
Side effects vary depending on the type of chemotherapy and may include nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and decreased appetite.
Will I lose my hair during chemotherapy?
It depends on the type of chemotherapy being used. Some types of chemotherapy cause hair loss, while others do not.
Can chemotherapy make me infertile?
Yes, some types of chemotherapy can cause infertility. It is important to discuss fertility preservation options with your doctor before starting treatment.
How long does chemotherapy treatment last?
The length of treatment varies depending on the type of cancer and the stage of the disease. Treatment can range from a few weeks to several months.
Can chemotherapy cure cancer?
In some cases, chemotherapy can cure cancer, but it is not a guarantee. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with other treatments such as surgery and radiation therapy
How will chemotherapy affect my daily life?
Chemotherapy can be physically and emotionally challenging, but many people continue to work and do normal activities during treatment.
Will I be able to eat normally during chemotherapy?
Some people experience nausea and decreased appetite during chemotherapy, but there are ways to manage these side effects and maintain a healthy diet.
Can chemotherapy affect my immune system?
Yes, chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections. It is important to take precautions to avoid getting sick during treatment.
Is Chemotherapy Painful?
Chemotherapy treatment rarely causes pain. However, chemotherapy can cause a range of side effects, some of which can be painful, such as mouth sores, nerve damage, and bone pain.
Is all chemotherapy treatment the same?
Chemotherapy treatment recommendations are different for every type of cancer and every case. Sometimes chemotherapy will be combined with other treatments such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy and surgery.
How do you decide on the combination of chemotherapy drugs?
The precise treatment recommendation will depend on the type of cancer, it if has spread in the body, your other medical problems and ability to tolerate the treatment.
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Our administration and support staff all have exceptional people skills and trained to assist you with all medical enquiries
- Consultant Medical Oncologist
- Consultant Medical Oncologist
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Saturday 9.00 – 8.00 pm
Sunday 10.00 – 9.00 pm
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