What does "adjuvant therapy" mean in cancer treatment?

Adjuvant therapy refers to additional treatment given after the primary treatment, such as surgery, to enhance the chances of long-term survival and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. This approach is commonly used after the initial treatment when there is a concern that residual cancer cells may still be present, and the goal is to target these cells. Examples of adjuvant therapies include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy.

The choice that indicates continued treatment after primary treatment aligns with this definition, emphasizing the preventative nature of adjuvant therapy in mitigating the risk of cancer returning. Understanding adjuvant therapy is crucial in cancer care protocols, as it significantly impacts patient outcomes and survival rates.