Comprehensive Overview of Immunotherapy for Lung Cancer

At our 154th support group meeting, Dr. Ravikrishna Madala presented a comprehensive overview of immunotherapy for lung cancer, addressing:
1.The immune system’s role and how cancer cells evade it.
2. Immunotherapy’s definition and its application in lung cancer treatment.
3. Different immunotherapy drugs used in lung cancer treatment
4. A comparison of immunotherapy and chemotherapy.
5. PDL1 expression and its implications for immunotherapy.
6. Expected side effects and their contrast with chemotherapy-related side effects.
7. The justification for concurrent administration of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in certain cases.
Knowledge is power. Educating families dealing with a lung cancer diagnosis empowers them. If they know what they are dealing with, compliance to treatment is also better. At LUNG Connect, our endeavour is to simplify the complex lung cancer journey.

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Comprehensive Overview of Targeted Therapy for Lung Cancer.

The first session of “Know your drug” series was on Targeted therapy drugs .
Dr Ajay Kumar Singh spoke in details about TKi’s , the expected side effects and their management in lung cancer treatment. The session was very informative and very well received.

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Comprehensive Overview of Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer.

Support group 157.
Know your Drug’s series.

Dr. Sunil delivered an informative and engaging presentation on the management of chemotherapy-related side effects in patients undergoing treatment for lung cancer. His talk focused on identifying common adverse effects, understanding their severity, and implementing appropriate management strategies to improve patient outcomes.

Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Dr. Sunil outlined the frequently observed side effects associated with chemotherapy, which include:
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea (loose motions)
• Constipation
• Fever
• Microsites (inflammation or soreness of the mouth and mucous membranes)
• Peripheral neuropathy (tingling or numbness in the hands and feet)

He emphasized that the presentation and severity of these side effects vary from patient to patient. Some individuals may experience only mild symptoms, while others may have more pronounced or multiple complications.

Management and Patient Guidance

• Early recognition and prompt reporting of symptoms.
• Following medical advice carefully, as individualized treatment plans are designed to manage side effects effectively.
• Seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms become severe or persistent.

Patient education and communication are vital to ensuring both safety and treatment adherence during chemotherapy.

Evolving Role of Chemotherapy

While targeted therapies and immunotherapy have become the current gold standard in the management of lung cancer, Dr. Sunil emphasized that chemotherapy continues to play a valuable and complementary role in treatment. It remains an essential option, particularly in cases where targeted or immunotherapeutic approaches are not suitable.

Key Takeaway

Chemotherapy remains a cornerstone of lung cancer treatment. With proper management of side effects and adherence to medical guidance, patient comfort, safety, and treatment efficacy can be significantly enhanced.