Get an easy-to-follow breakdown of systemic anticancer treatments (SACT)! This episode explains how SACT works against cancer with simple analogies. We dive into traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy drugs and the mechanisms that make them effective. Great for healthcare professionals and anyone interested in cancer treatments. Tune in next week for the world of targeted therapies!
Show Notes
Systemic Anticancer Treatments (SACT) target the hidden and traveling aspects of cancer that surgery or radiation might miss.
They disrupt essential processes in cancer cells or harness the immune system against them.
Cytotoxic Chemotherapy works by disrupting cell division and damaging DNA.
Types of cytotoxic drugs:
Alkylating Agents (e.g., cyclophosphamide) disrupt DNA replication.
Antimetabolites (e.g., 5-FU) mimic essential cell building blocks to cause errors.
Antimicrotubule Agents (e.g., taxanes, vinca alkaloids) target cell division machinery.
DNA Topoisomerase Inhibitors (e.g., irinotecan) cause irreparable DNA breaks.
Cytotoxic drugs can affect healthy cells, leading to side effects.
SACT is often used in combination with surgery, radiation, or other therapies.
Next Episode: Targeted therapies and immunotherapy.
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