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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
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In most hospitals a team of specialists will work together to decide which treatment is best for you. This multidisciplinary team (MDT) will include:
The team may include a number of other healthcare professionals such as:
Many people worry about having cancer treatments, because of the side effects that can occur. Although the treatments can cause side effects, it’s usually possible to control these with medicines. Some people want to know what would happen if they don’t have any treatment.
Treatment can be given for different reasons and the potential benefits will vary depending upon the individual situation. In women with early-stage cervical cancer , surgery is often done with the aim of curing the cancer. Occasionally, additional treatments such as radiotherapy or a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, are given after surgery to help reduce the risk of it coming back.
With advanced cancer , surgery is not usually possible. However, treatment using a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy can still cure the cancer for some women. In other situations, treatment may be able to control the cancer, leading to an improvement in symptoms and a better quality of life.
However, for some women the treatment will have little effect upon the cancer and they will have the side effects without a great deal of benefit.
We have more information that you might find useful while planning your treatment, including:
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.