In 2023, there have been new drug approvals and increased patient awareness. The American Cancer Society reported a total of 1,958,310 new cancer cases in 2023. Chemotherapy remains the standard of care for induction and consolidation in cancer treatment.

The two stages of therapy most often used are induction and consolidation. Induction is a first-line cancer treatment that prepares the patient for radiation therapy. Consolidation chemotherapy is used after induction and targets malignant cells that have remained in the patient’s body.

According to the National Cancer Institute, chemotherapy works against cancer by killing fast-growing cancer cells. Here, we will list several ways to avoid side effects, keeping in mind that patients may experience adverse events in varying degrees.

MD Anderson’s Dr. Amy Hassan, a general oncologist, offered advice to patients actively receiving cancer treatment and to their caregivers:

1. Avoid raw meat and seafood: The risk of contracting food-borne illnesses, like salmonella, is higher during cancer treatment. Medicine used during cancer treatment can suppress the immune system. Most patients can eat raw (washed) fruits and vegetables. However, patients undergoing intensive regimens, such as lymphoma or leukemia patients, may be advised to avoid raw produce. Always consume food immediately if it is to be eaten hot. Do not allow food to reach room temperature. Speak with your care team if you are uncertain.
2. Foods that intensify chemotherapy side effects should be avoided: Therefore, it could be wise to avoid spicy, acidic, and dense food during your treatment. Grapefruit causes reactions, including to some medications. Dr. Hassan suggests avoiding grapefruit and other citrus fruits if your mouth is sore or sensitive. However, drinking a glass of lemonade or eating an orange appears to be safe. Cold drinks and frozen desserts are another category of food that may be unpleasant if you have cold sensitivity related to chemotherapy.
3. Nutritional supplements or new medications prescribed by your doctor are permissible: Dr. Hassan cautions patients not to take any new supplements without their doctor’s permission. Supplements such as CBD oil or herbal supplements could interact with other medicines, including melatonin and medications that treat cancer.
4. Avoid alcohol during cancer treatment: Alcohol is processed by the liver, as are many other cancer medications. The dehydration effect of alcohol increases nausea and makes chemotherapy more difficult to tolerate. If you must drink alcohol, be sure not to drink it before, during, or after treatment. An in-depth discussion with your oncologist is warranted. Dr. Hassan explained that smoking and vaping negatively affect the body and it is best to avoid both. The doctor recommends that anyone attempting smoking cessation may contact MD Anderson for help (888) 770-8059). There would be no charge to the patient.
5. Avoid excessive UV exposure, use SPF 30 sunscreen, and avoid being outside when the sun’s rays are most intense: Also, wear protective clothing as an additional safeguard. Patients who are especially susceptible to sunburns should avoid being outdoors during peak hours. Avoid using tanning beds.
6. Don’t risk chemo exposure or pregnancy: Both human egg cells and sperm may be damaged by chemo. Therefore, during treatment for cancer, birth control is strongly encouraged to protect the patient and partner from chemo exposure. Although most chemo medications clear a patient’s system in 48 hours, they might still be present in various body secretions within that 48-hour timeframe.
7. Caregivers should take special precautions when cleaning or washing clothing and other items: If someone other than the patient is handling clothing or linens used by the patient, that person should put on gloves or they may absorb the medication themselves. This holds true if the caregiver is touching the patient’s pills. They must use gloves or they will absorb the patient’s medications.
8. Avoid socializing with sick people: A patient’s immune system is weakened and susceptible to infection while they are receiving chemotherapy. A mask is always recommended, especially when RSV, COVID-19, and flu viruses are circulating.
9. Pace your activities and maintain a comfortable schedule: Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy treatment. Although some patients are able to maintain their usual schedule, others find it difficult to complete their normal tasks. Although the patient is advised to stay active, at times it is not possible. Under these circumstances, it is advisable to rest and repair rather than overextend.
10. Communication between patient and care team is of vital importance: Do not hesitate to ask questions in a timely manner. Certain issues that could affect your cancer treatment may not be obvious to you. If you are thinking of adding or changing any part of your treatment or daily routine, always consult with your care team. That would include new activities or anything affecting your lifestyle.

This list was prepared to bring comfort to patients as they receive their chemotherapy treatment. It is important also that the patient has the support of family, friends, and their care team.