Cancer treatment has advanced a lot in the last few years. Now, patients have more options than just chemotherapy. One of the newer treatments is targeted therapy. Many cancer patients in Pune are now asking – “Which is better: targeted therapy or chemotherapy?”

Let’s understand both with insights from Dr. Lalit Banswal, a leading cancer specialist in Pune with over 15 years of experience in surgical and advanced cancer care.

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy uses strong drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. It is a systemic treatment, meaning it affects the whole body. That’s why patients often experience side effects like:

• Hair loss
  
  

• Nausea and vomiting
  
  

• Fatigue
  
  

• Low immunity
  
  

• Mouth ulcers
  
  

Chemotherapy is commonly used in treating many cancers like breast cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, and colon cancer.

What is Targeted Therapy?

Targeted therapy works differently. It targets specific genes or proteins in cancer cells that help them grow or survive. This treatment is more focused and causes less harm to healthy cells.

It’s especially useful in cancers that have specific mutations or markers, like HER2-positive breast cancer, EGFR-mutated lung cancer, or colorectal cancer with KRAS mutations.

Key Differences – Chemotherapy vs Targeted Therapy

Which is Better for Cancer Patients in Pune?

The answer depends on the type and stage of cancer, and the patient’s overall condition.

Dr. Lalit Banswal explains:
"Targeted therapy is excellent when the tumour has specific markers. But chemotherapy is still effective and often necessary. In many cases, both are used together for better results."

For example:

• Breast cancer patients may benefit from targeted drugs like trastuzumab along with chemo.
  
  

• Lung cancer patients with gene mutations can avoid chemo and get targeted pills with fewer side effects.
  
  

• For advanced colon cancer, targeted therapy combined with chemotherapy may improve survival.
  
  

Consult Dr. Lalit Banswal – Cancer Treatment Expert in Pune

Dr. Banswal is a trusted surgical oncologist in Pune, known for personalised cancer care. He guides patients through every step – from diagnosis to surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy planning.

His expertise includes treating:

• Breast cancer
  
  

• Lung cancer
  
  

• Stomach and colon cancer
  
  

• Oral and head-neck cancers
  
  

• Robotic and laparoscopic cancer surgery
  
  

All treatments are available under one roof at Precision Plus Superspeciality Hospital, Undri, Pune.

Clinic Contact Details

📍 Location: Precision Plus Superspeciality Hospital, Hadapsar Road, behind Undri City Center Mall, Pune – 411060
📞 Phone: 9158050180
🌐 Website: www.drlalitbanswal.com
📧 Email: drlalitbanswal123@gmail.com
🕒 Timing: Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Conclusion:
Both chemotherapy and targeted therapy are effective – but used based on cancer type, stage, and test reports. To know what suits you best, consult Dr. Lalit Banswal, one of Pune’s most experienced cancer specialists.