Chemotherapy doesn’t kill, ignorance does, Salako, oncologist, warns
Oncologist Dr. Bolaji Lateef Salako explains the mechanics of chemotherapy and addresses common misconceptions regarding its side effects and efficacy. He emphasizes that misinformation about cancer treatment can be fatal and urges patients to complete their prescribed medical regimens.
Why it matters
Public health outcomes are significantly impacted by medical literacy and the combatting of misinformation regarding life-saving treatments.
Add as a preferred source Dr Bolaji Lateef Salako, a consultant clinical radiation oncologist at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, explains how chemotherapy works, why it does not spread cancer, the truth about side effects, why patients should complete treatment, and how misinformation is costing lives in this interview with SADE OGUNTOLA. Excerpts :
What exactly is chemotherapy, and how does it work to fight cancer in the body?
Chemotherapy refers to the use of cytotoxic drugs that destroy cancer cells. These drugs mainly target rapidly dividing cells, one of the characteristics of cancer cells. Different types work in different ways depending on the cancer being treated. Chemotherapy may be given as tablets, creams, injections or intravenous infusions.
Is chemotherapy the same for all cancers, or does it vary by type and stage?
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