Advanced, Personalized Treatment Based on Your Cancer’s Genetics
At Columbus Regional Health, targeted therapy is one of the most advanced tools we use to treat cancer. This type of treatment is designed to focus on the specific genes, proteins, or molecular pathways that help cancer cells grow and survive—offering a more personalized and often more precise approach than traditional chemotherapy.
How Targeted Therapy Works
Targeted therapy works by identifying and attacking cancer cells based on their unique characteristics. These treatments may:
- Block signals that cancer cells use to grow or divide
- Prevent the formation of new blood vessels that feed tumors
- Deliver cell-killing substances directly to cancer cells
- Trigger the immune system to destroy cancer cells
Unlike chemotherapy, which affects both cancerous and healthy fast-growing cells, targeted therapy is designed to minimize damage to healthy tissues.
When Is Targeted Therapy Used?
Targeted therapy is often used to treat cancers that have specific genetic or molecular markers. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, surgery, or radiation.
Cancers commonly treated with targeted therapy include:
- Breast cancer (HER2-positive)
- Lung cancer (EGFR, ALK, or other gene mutations)
- Colorectal cancer
- Melanoma
- Certain types of leukemia and lymphoma
Your care team may recommend genomic testing or biomarker analysis to determine whether targeted therapy is right for your cancer.
What to Expect
Targeted therapy is usually given as:
- Oral medications (pills or capsules)
- Intravenous (IV) infusions
Possible side effects vary depending on the specific drug and the cancer being treated, but may include fatigue, skin changes, or diarrhea. Your care team will monitor you closely and provide support to manage any side effects.
Precision Medicine, Focused on You
At Columbus Regional Health, targeted therapy is part of our commitment to precision medicine—using the most advanced science to tailor treatment to each patient’s unique needs. We work together across specialties to ensure every aspect of your care is connected, coordinated, and compassionate.
To learn more about targeted therapy or find out if you may be a candidate, please call 812-376-5550 or speak with your cancer care team.
