Quimio

Quimio is a colloquial term often used in Spanish-speaking countries to refer to chemotherapy, a type of cancer treatment. Chemotherapy utilizes a combination of drugs, known as chemotherapeutic agents, to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. These drugs work by targeting rapidly dividing cells, which is characteristic of cancer cells, although they can also affect healthy, fast-growing cells, leading to side effects.

The specific drugs and the treatment regimen are determined by the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Chemotherapy can be administered in various ways, including intravenously (through a vein), orally (by mouth), or sometimes injected. It is often part of a broader cancer treatment plan that may also include surgery, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy.

The process of receiving chemotherapy is typically overseen by an oncologist. Patients may experience a range of side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and a weakened immune system, depending on the drugs used and individual responses. Supportive care is an important aspect of managing these side effects and improving the patient's quality of life during treatment. The term "quimio" is widely understood in informal contexts as referring to this medical treatment.