Systemic and targeted therapy

Systemic therapies are drugs that spread throughout your body to eliminate cancer cells wherever they are located. They include chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy. While chemotherapy can impact fast-growing cancerous and noncancerous cells, therapies such as hormonal therapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapies pursue specific molecular targets associated with cancer.

• Chemotherapy – We use chemotherapy and other drugs to treat most types of cancer. These drugs destroy cancer cells by impeding their growth and reproduction. Chemotherapy can be delivered by pill, injection or intravenous infusion.
• Hormonal Therapy – Hormonal therapy is used to slow or stop cancers that use hormones to grow, such as breast and prostate cancers. They can block hormone production or interfere with how hormones behave in your body. Hormonal therapy can be delivered by pill or injection.
• Immunotherapy – Immunotherapy works by activating our immune system to help fight the cancer, similar to how our immune system helps fight and prevent infections such as cold or flu viruses. Immunotherapy is most commonly delivered as an intravenous infusion.
• Targeted therapy – Targeted therapy works differently than traditional chemotherapy. It targets your cancer's specific genes, proteins or tissue that contribute to cancer growth and survival. Types of targeted therapy include monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule drugs. Some targeted therapies are given by pill, others are given by intravenous infusion.​​​
• Clinical trials - Our research leads to breakthrough discoveries in how we attack cancer and search for a cure. Clinical trials can help patients live longer with fewer side effects and a better quality of life.

Learn how we can help

At Goshen Center for Cancer Care, our multidisciplinary team of specialists work together to create your individualized treatment plan. Depending on your cancer type, it may include systemic or targeted therapy. Find out more about how we treat cancer. Call (888) 492-HOPE to talk with our oncology information specialists.