On Friday (March 22), Catherine, Princess of Wales, revealed the heartbreaking news she was battling cancer.
Sharing a video to the Kensington Palace social media channels, Princess Catherine revealed that the diagnosis came after she underwent major abdominal surgery back in January. Watch the full video below:
In the emotional message, the 42-year-old Princess also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the public and revealed that she has taken the time to reassure her three children that she will overcome this battle.
Although Princess Catherine understandably didn't reveal too many details about her cancer battle, she did state: "Tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment."
And following the outpouring of support and concern for Princess Catherine's wellbeing, this has led to questions about what "preventative chemotherapy" is and how it is helping the Royal to fight her battle.
What is Preventive Chemotherapy?
Preventive chemotherapy, also known as adjuvant chemotherapy, plays a crucial role in cancer treatment, targeting residual cancer cells left behind after primary interventions like surgery - like the one Princess Catherine had back in January.
Also known as adjuvant chemotherapy, it is a treatment regimen involving anti-cancer drugs administered post-surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells in the body. Its primary goal is to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and metastasis, particularly in cases where small cancerous cells may evade detection by conventional diagnostic methods.
The UK's National Health Service (NHS) website describes adjuvant chemotherapy as chemotherapy that is used to "reduce the risk of the cancer coming back after radiotherapy or surgery".
Speaking to Sky News, Lawrence Young - a professor of molecular oncology at the University of Warwick - detailed: "Even after successful removal of all visible cancer by surgery, microscopic cancer cells can remain lurking in the body and can't be detected by current tests."
Understanding the Treatment Process
The treatment process typically begins after primary cancer treatment, such as tumor removal surgery.
Oncologists will assess the patient's cancer stage and type to determine the most suitable chemotherapy drugs and dosage.
Professor Young explained that doctors are able to accurately determine the "right treatment for the right patient", and although the treatment can be "unpleasant", Princess Catherine will be "getting the best care possible."
Preventive chemotherapy courses typically last three to six months, although longer durations may be necessary in certain cases.
Effectiveness of Preventive Chemotherapy
Preventive chemotherapy has demonstrated significant efficacy in various cancer types, including breast, bowel, and lung cancer, The Guardian reports.
Additionally, it is often recommended for epithelial ovarian cancer patients due to the high risk of disease recurrence. The decision to prescribe adjuvant chemotherapy is based on factors such as cancer stage, tumor characteristics, and the likelihood of disease progression.
Andrew Beggs - a MRC Senior Clinical Fellow and Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, University of Birmingham - further explained to Sky News that "age has no effect on the success rate of chemotherapy except when the cancers are 'immune hot' which are commoner in young people - in this case a type of chemotherapy called immunotherapy could be given."
However, Beggs did explained that younger people can "tolerate higher doses of chemotherapy" better, and therefore can endure stronger treatment plans that are "more likely to kill any leftover cells".
Side Effects and Considerations
While preventive chemotherapy can be highly effective, it may also entail certain side effects. Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased susceptibility to infections, and loss of appetite. These side effects occur because chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells, affecting both cancerous and healthy tissues.
Recovery and Recovery Times
Recovery from preventive chemotherapy varies from patient to patient and depends on factors such as overall health and the specific drugs administered.
While recovery may take several months, younger patients often experience shorter recovery times due to their robust health status. It is essential for patients to follow their healthcare provider's guidance and attend follow-up appointments to monitor their recovery progress.
Beggs explained that treatment "is generally given for between three to 12 months, depending on what type of cancer it is".
We continue to wish Princess Catherine and her family the very best at this time.
