Scientists make surprise finding that could lengthen lives of patients suffering from different types of cancer READ MORE: Doctor on the cusp of a cancer curing vaccine By Maiya Focht For Dailymail.Com and Associated Press Published: 17:43 BST, 11 June 2024 | Updated: 20:11 BST, 11 June 2024 e-mail View comments When most people are hit with a cancer diagnosis, they'd be forgiven for wanting doctors to throw everything at it — no matter how grueling the treatment. But a growing number of studies show not only can this approach make you sicker, it might actually shorten your life.
Three intriguing papers presented at the world's most influential cancer conference last month suggested that l ess aggressive chemotherapy, radiation and surgery actually helped people with cancer feel healthier for longer. For those with some types of the disease, gentler treatments led to a longer life, too. A series of intriguing studies have found that patients with ovarian, blood and esophageal cancer do better with less aggressive treatment - with some even living longer Cancer treatments, such as chemo drugs that destroy the immune system and radiation that can damage surrounding tissue, can lead to serious complications.
What's more, highly invasive surgeries to remove body parts can lead to infections and blood loss. Experts suggest that minimizing treatment can reduce the risk of potentially fatal side effects and complications. It also means patients are well enough to embark on healthy.
