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Breaks in treatment

Misong
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New to this group but about to start my second round of chemo for bowel cancer. Tumour has been removed but there are still traces in lymph nodes and blood. Have had a PICC line installed and understand the course comprises 12 cycles of two weeks with me being on half dose due to a low DPD. I am scheduled to go on holiday after the seventh dose and wondered if it was okay to then take a four-week break before completing the course. Will this break in treatment mean there is a lower chance of success? Should I cancel the holiday?

  • Hello Misong

    Thanks for getting in touch. Welcome to the online community.

    My name is Helen, I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses on the Macmillan Support Line.

    I can imagine that you are looking forward to that holiday and quite understand why you would want to preserve it. However, this is definitely a question that needs to be talked through with your clinician, Misong. We are not able to suggest treatment changes as we are not part of your bowel cancer team.

    Generally speaking the chemotherapy regimen works best if given in the sequence prescribed without a break, but your oncologist is the right person to weigh up the benefits of your holiday versus the possible risks of a break before completing the 12 cycles in total.

    Just in case you haven’t organised your travel insurance, I have popped a link into our web page on travel and holiday insurance that you may find valuable.  

    So sorry that I couldn’t be more helpful but sincerely hope you enjoy that holiday when it comes.

    Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if there is anything else we can support you with.

    Best wishes, Helen

     

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us. 

     

    Ref HM/FM 

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