Targeted Therapy for Cancer Treatment in Thailand

Chemotherapy, or "chemo," has been a longstanding treatment for cancer, but newer approaches like targeted therapy are changing the landscape. Most patients often worry about side effects during or after chemotherapy treatment. Although chemotherapy can be effective, only a portion of patients can tolerate long-term treatment.

Today, we understand cancer mechanisms better, recognizing that abnormalities at the cellular level cause uncontrolled cell growth and division through aberrant signaling pathways. This knowledge has led to the development of targeted therapy, which precisely inhibits these specific processes.

What is Targeted Therapy?

Targeted Therapy is a treatment that specifically targets cancer cells, inhibiting the signaling pathways involved in cancer cell growth and division. This targeted approach results in higher treatment response rates, longer cancer control periods, and fewer side effects on normal cells compared to traditional chemotherapy.

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The Difference Between Targeted Therapy and Chemotherapy

Targeted therapy works specifically on cancer cells with minimizing harm to healthy cells compared to chemotherapy. This specificity leads to better treatment outcomes and fewer side effects than chemotherapy. When examining targeted therapy vs chemotherapy, the contrast becomes clear in how each affects the body. However, it's important to note that not every cancer patient is eligible for targeted therapy treatment. Eligibility depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the presence of specific receptors or "targets" for the targeted therapy to act upon.

Discover the most common types of cancer and their treatments by checking out our in-depth articles guide on Cervical Cancer and Liver Cancer

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Who is treated with Targeted Therapy?y

This group of medications works effectively only for cancer types that have a specific "target" for the drug. Therefore, an essential additional step in modern cancer treatment protocols is "target testing" from cancer tissue samples or the patient's blood before prescribing these medications. This testing helps select the appropriate targeted therapy for each individual patient's specific type of cancer.

From the standard international targeted therapy treatment protocols, molecular testing has become a standard procedure to identify patients who would benefit most from these precision medicines. For example, EGFR targeted therapy is typically recommended only after confirming the presence of EGFR mutations in lung cancer patients. Similarly, HER2 targeted therapy is prescribed for breast cancer patients whose tumors overexpress the HER2 protein.

The comparison between targeted therapy vs immunotherapy or targeted therapy vs chemotherapy becomes relevant only after determining whether the patient has these molecular targets. Medical centers in Bangkok offering targeted therapy treatment typically provide comprehensive molecular testing services to guide treatment decisions.

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The Types of Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy comes in various forms, including oral tablets and intravenous injections. Treatment with these medications may involve using targeted therapy alone or in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy. The treatment plan depends on the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall health, and other factors.

Another important consideration is that targeted therapy may affect blood levels of other medications, or conversely, other medications may alter the levels of targeted therapy when taken together. Therefore, patients should always seek guidance from specialist physicians and pharmacists before starting treatment to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.

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Conclusion

Targeted therapy represents an excellent treatment option for cancer patients, gradually improving quality of life throughout the treatment journey. This approach helps alleviate patients' concerns about treatment methods and side effects. However, patients must undergo thorough examination to receive a proper diagnosis and personalized recommendations from medical specialists.

At Nakornthon Hospital, targeted therapy treatment stands among the comprehensive cancer care options available to both Thai residents and expatriates. The hospital's oncology department offers cutting-edge molecular targeted therapy approaches with specialists experienced in determining the most effective treatment protocols based on individual patient profiles.

Nakornthon Hospital's Cancer Center brings together experienced oncologists, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and the latest targeted therapy options in Thailand. With a patient-centered approach that emphasizes comfort, efficiency, and effectiveness, the hospital provides a supportive environment for cancer patients throughout their treatment journey.

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For more information, please contact:

1. - Website : https://en.nakornthon.com
2. - Facebook : Nakornthon Hospital - International Patient
3. - Line : @nakornthoninter
4. - Tel: 02-450-9999 (Available 24 hours)