Join Lung Foundation Australia and Dr. Malinda Itchins, a Thoracic Medical Oncologist, to learn more about targeted therapy and its role in lung cancer treatment. This webinar covers several key topics, providing valuable insights into this advanced treatment approach.
What are Targeted Therapies? Targeted therapies are a type of cancer treatment that specifically targets genetic mutations or abnormalities within cancer cells. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which attacks all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapies focus on the specific changes that drive cancer growth. This precision allows for more effective treatment with potentially fewer side effects.
How Targeted Therapies Differ from Other Treatments: Targeted therapies differ from other treatments like chemotherapy and radiation in their mechanism of action. While chemotherapy affects both cancerous and healthy cells, leading to a broad range of side effects, targeted therapies aim to interfere with specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth and survival. This targeted approach can result in fewer side effects and improved outcomes for patients.
Side Effects of Targeted Therapies: Although targeted therapies are generally associated with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy, they can still cause adverse reactions. Common side effects include skin problems (such as rashes), gastrointestinal issues (like diarrhea), and fatigue. Some targeted therapies may also cause more serious side effects, such as liver problems, high blood pressure, or blood clotting issues. It is crucial for patients to discuss potential side effects with their healthcare team and report any new symptoms promptly.
Standard and Emerging Targeted Therapies: The field of targeted therapy is rapidly evolving, with several standard and emerging treatments available for lung cancer. Standard targeted therapies include drugs that inhibit specific proteins or pathways, such as EGFR inhibitors (e.g., erlotinib) and ALK inhibitors (e.g., crizotinib). Emerging therapies are continually being developed and tested in clinical trials, offering new hope for patients with specific genetic mutations. These advancements are driven by ongoing research and a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying lung cancer.
Support and Resources: For further information, support, or to speak to a Lung Cancer Specialist Nurse, patients and carers can contact the Lung Foundation Australia’s Information and Support Centre at 1800 654 301. This service provides access to specialist nurses, support groups, and educational materials to help manage the challenges of living with lung cancer and navigating the treatment process.
In summary, targeted therapies represent a significant advancement in lung cancer treatment, offering a more precise and potentially less toxic approach compared to traditional therapies. By understanding the role of targeted therapies, their differences from other treatments, potential side effects, and the latest developments in the field, patients can make informed decisions about their care. Lung Foundation Australia provides the necessary support and resources to help patients and their families through their cancer journey. For more information, contact their Information and Support Centre or visit their website.
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