Chemotherapy Holiday

In the past, a diagnosis of cancer was considered a death sentence. With the progression of medical technology and cancer research, many cancers are curable and many others are incurable, but survivable. In many, their disease is considered to be stable and not an immediate threat to their lives (progression-free survival). Many may deemed this as having a "chronic" disease as those in this position will likely be on some form of therapy for the rest of their lives. With such long-term treatment possible, a "chemotherapy holiday" may become a necessity in an attempt to balance quality of life and the toxicities of chemotherapy.

A chemotherapy holiday may be defined as  a complete break or a chemotherapy free interval (intermittent therapy). A chemotherapy holiday will more than likely lead to an improvement in the quality of life, a possible reduction or cessation of side effects, and complications, but there is also a risk of relapse or recurrence.Studies have shown that there is no difference in the survival rates in those who take a chemotherapy holiday, but there is an improved quality of life versus those who do not take the chemotherapy holiday.

We must all understand that each situation is unique and the individual must consider their condition, the risks, and the benefits in making a decision regarding a chemotherapy holiday.