Concurrent Chemo-Radiation

Overview What to Expect Our Expertise & Doctors FAQ

What is concurrent chemo-radiation?

Concurrent chemo-radiation uses radiotherapy and chemotherapy at the same time to treat cancer.

Radiotherapy is a common form of anti-cancer treatment that beams high-energy radiation particles directly onto cancer cells. The procedure destroys cancer cells using sophisticated computer targeting systems.

Chemotherapy, also known as cytotoxic drugs, is the name given to drugs that destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given together with radiation to enhance the effectiveness of radiation treatment.

In some cases, chemotherapy is given together with radiation to enhance the effectiveness of radiation treatment. This is known as concurrent chemo-radiation therapy.

Why do you need concurrent chemo-radiation?

Concurrent chemo-radiation therapy is typically used to cure cancer. This form of treatment may be appropriate if your cancer:

Has not spread to distant organs
Is deep-seated, not surgically accessible
Is locally extensive and not amenable to surgery

Concurrent chemo-radiation therapy may also be used as a preventive treatment after surgery for some cancers.

What are the risks of concurrent chemo-radiation?

Concurrent chemo-radiation intensifies the possible side effects of both chemotherapy and radiation therapy such as:

Loss of appetite
Nausea
Ulcers
Fatigue
Hair loss
Diarrhoea
Nerve damage

How do you prepare for concurrent chemo-radiation?

Your doctor will discuss your treatment plans and advise whether you should receive chemotherapy and radiation therapy sequentially or at the same time.

Prepare for each type of treatment and the effect of going through both types of therapies at the same time:

Chemotherapy
Conventional radiation therapy

Why choose Mount Elizabeth Hospitals?

Mount Elizabeth works closely with Parkway Cancer Centre to provide a suite of cancer treatments for our patients including concurrent chemo-radiation. Our multidisciplinary team consists of skilled doctors, nurses, counsellors and paramedical professionals.

Aided by the latest technologies and innovative therapies, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal clinical outcomes and win the fight against cancer.

Our medical oncologists

Our experienced team of cancer specialists at Mount Elizabeth is skilled in treating different types of cancer. Using the latest technologies and therapies including protocols for concurrent chemo-radiation, we will customise your treatment with your care and comfort as our priorities.