What is Targeted Therapy?
Targeted therapy is an advanced cancer treatment that works by focusing on specific genes, proteins, or pathways that cancer cells use to grow and survive. Unlike chemotherapy, which affects both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapy attacks only the cancer-specific targets. This makes it more precise and often leads to fewer side effects. It is commonly used for cancers like breast, lung, colorectal, head & neck, and certain blood cancers.
Symptoms / Side Effects of Targeted Therapy
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Skin rashes or dryness
- High blood pressure
- Mouth sores
- Changes in liver function
- Headache or mild nausea
Risk Factors (Who Needs Targeted Therapy?)
- Cancer shows specific genetic mutations (EGFR, HER2, ALK, etc.)
- Tumor profiling suggests sensitivity to targeted drugs
- Cancer has spread or is advanced
- Standard chemotherapy is not effective
- The goal is to use a more precise, personalized treatment approach
Benefits of Targeted Therapy
- Attacks cancer cells more precisely
- Causes fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy
- Can shrink tumors or slow their growth
- Works well for cancers with specific gene mutations
- Can be used alone or with other treatments like immunotherapy
- Helps improve long-term outcomes and survival
