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Publications

Journal Article Review Epublish

PubMed: 40272602 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-025-02198-8

Advancements and limitations in traditional anti-cancer therapies: a comprehensive review of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy.

Discov Oncol 16(1):607

Authors: Aasma Zafar, Summaiya Khatoon, Muhammad Jawad Khan, Junaid Abu, Aisha Naeem

Affiliations

  • Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University, Islamabad, 45550, Pakistan.
  • College of Health Sciences, QU Health Sector, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
  • Aisha bint Hamad al-Attiyah hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
  • Research and Graduate Studies, QU Health Sector, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.

Abstract

Cancer remains a major global health challenge, consistently ranking as the second leading cause of mortality worldwide. Despite significant advancements in research and technology, the need to deepen our understanding of tumor biology and improve therapeutic strategies persists. This review focuses on the progress and challenges of four traditional cancer treatment modalities: surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy. Surgery, the primary method for tumor removal, has evolved with the integration of fluorescence-based technology and robotic systems, enhancing precision and minimizing collateral damage. Radiation therapy has progressed with improved focus, intensity control, and 3D technology, refining both diagnosis and treatment. Chemotherapy has advanced from natural extracts to synthesized derivatives with amplified cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Hormonal therapy has emerged as a crucial strategy for hormone-dependent cancers, restraining growth or inducing regression. Despite these advancements, each approach faces ongoing challenges. Surgery struggles with complete tumor removal due to heterogeneity. Chemotherapy contends with drug resistance and side effects. Radiation therapy grapples with precision issues and limited access in some regions. Hormonal therapy faces resistance development and quality of life impacts. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of these traditional anti-cancer therapies, offering insights into their progress and highlighting areas for future research. By examining these modalities, we aim to underscore their relevance in the current oncology landscape and identify opportunities for improvement in cancer treatment strategies.

MeSH

Radiotherapy, Neoplasms, Drug Therapy, Research, Therapeutics, Chemotherapy

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