Adjuvant Therapy

What is it?

Adjuvant therapy, sometimes called adjunct or helper therapy, is when a second type of cancer treatment is given after a primary or first treatment for cancer. Adjuvant therapy is most often chemotherapy given after surgery to remove a tumor. Other types of therapy that can be used are radiation, hormone, targeted, and immunotherapy.

Why is it given?

Adjuvant therapy is used to treat any cancer cells that may still be in your body after surgery. It can also help prevent your cancer from coming back (recurrence).

Your team will talk to you about your treatment options. Ask your provider if adjuvant therapy will be a part of your treatment plan.