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Canadian Cancer Society

Treatments

Learning about how cancer is treated can be overwhelming – but we’re here to help. Find more information on different treatment types, tests and procedures, clinical trials, complementary therapies and how to manage side effects.
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Treatment types

There are several types of treatment for cancer. The type of treatment you receive depends on your type and stage of cancer, personal preference and age. Learn more about chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy, and other treatments such as hormone therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and stem cell transplants.

A young boy sitting with his mother and high-fiving his doctor.
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Tests and procedures

Your healthcare team will use different tests and procedures, such as biopsies, scans and blood tests, to confirm a cancer diagnosis, treat cancer, monitor your body’s response to treatment and check your overall health.

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Clinical trials

Clinical trials answer important questions about how to prevent, detect, treat and manage cancer. Learn more about how clinical trials work, where to find a trial and how to volunteer to take part.

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Complementary therapies

Complementary therapies do not treat cancer, but they can help some people feel better during cancer treatment. Learn about the difference between conventional cancer treatments and complementary therapies and how to choose the type that may be right for you.

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Side effects

Side effects from treatment are common, but they can be managed. Learn more about how to cope with fatigue, nausea, pain and a range of other possible side effects.

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