Coping with cancer chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is presented as a treatment option to many people with cancer. It may be offered as adjuvant therapy to reduce the subsequent risk of recurrence, or as palliative therapy with the goal of improvement in symptoms and/or prolongation of life. Most people regard chemotherapy with dread and may require help with many aspects of treatment. The general practitioner is well placed to offer assistance in decision making, management of short or long term side effects, and referral for patients who are not coping adequately.