Dr. Joydeep Ghosh | Medical Oncologist | Cancer Doctor in Kolkata

  If you or a loved one has been recommended targeted therapy, it’s normal to have questions. The term itself can sound a bit technical, but the idea is actually quite simple: instead of attacking all fast-growing cells (like traditional chemotherapy), targeted therapy focuses only on the cancer cells  — like a sniper instead of a shotgun. Here, Dr. Joydeep Ghosh , a leading precision oncology doctor in Kolkata , answers some of the most common questions patients ask about this treatment. What is Targeted Therapy Treatment? Targeted therapy treatment, also known as precision therapy, is a cancer treatment that targets specific abnormalities in the cancer cells, disrupting their growth and preventing rapid spread, while causing minimal damage to healthy cells. These treatments are designed to attack the specific genetic changes or proteins that drive the growth of cancer cells in any particular type of cancer. How is it Different from Chemotherapy? Chemotherapy affects all fast-grow...

When we hear the word cancer , it often brings fear. But knowing what’s happening inside your body — and what can be done — will make the journey slightly easier. Head and neck cancer may sound complex, but here’s a simple guide to help you understand its stages and treatments. Remember, expert guidance from a trusted cancer doctor can provide reassurance and confidence during this challenging time. What Do the Stages Mean? Think of cancer stages like levels in a game — each one tells you how far the disease has spread. Stage I The tumour is small (less than 2 cm) and hasn’t spread. Caught early, this stage usually has a good outcome, offering hope and optimism for the future. Stage II The tumour grows slightly bigger (2–4 cm) but is still in the original location. Stage III Now the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. It needs more attention and possibly a mix of treatments. Stage IV This is the advanced stage and has three sub-levels: Stage IVA : Tumour may have grown into ne...