Chemotherapy
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Chemotherapy can be used as a first line treatment for lung cancer or as additional treatment after surgery. In some cases, chemotherapy can be used to lessen side effects of the cancer. When cure is not a possibility, palliative treatment often is recommended. This is the use of medications, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or other measures to relieve symptoms of lung cancer without actually eliminating the tumor. It is important that radiotherapy be given in small doses so that side effects do not develop. Even though non-surgical treatment is not often curative, it can prolong survival. At some point, if you and your oncologist or primary care physician agree that treatment no longer is advisable, hospice care can provide comfort.