What type of treatment is commonly used for cancer that has spread to multiple organs?

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Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer that has metastasized, or spread, to multiple organs due to its ability to target and kill fast-growing cancer cells throughout the body. Unlike localized treatments such as surgery or radiation, which are often effective for tumors confined to a specific area, chemotherapy employs systemic agents that circulate in the bloodstream and can reach cancer cells regardless of their location.

This systemic approach is especially beneficial for cancers that have already disseminated, as it helps to target cancer cells that may have spread and are not accessible through surgical means. Chemotherapy can also work in conjunction with other treatments, such as immunotherapy or radiation, as part of a comprehensive cancer treatment plan aimed at controlling the disease and improving patient outcomes.

In contrast, surgery focuses on physically removing tumors from the body, which is less effective once cancer has spread widely. While immunotherapy harnesses the body's immune system to fight cancer and is applicable in certain cases, its effectiveness can vary based on the type of cancer and the specific characteristics of the tumor. Radiation is primarily used to target specific areas where cancer may be localized, making it less suitable for widespread disease that has metastasized to various organs.

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