Chemotherapy, Biotherapy & Infusion
Your personal cancer treatment plan in Iowa may include medicines—such as chemotherapy, biotherapy (immunotherapy), cancer infusion therapy, and hormone therapy. Rely on us to help you stay as comfortable as possible during your care at William R. Bliss Cancer Center in Ames, Iowa.
Chemotherapy in Iowa
One of the most common cancer treatments, chemotherapy kills cells that grow quickly—including cancer cells and some healthy cells involved in digestion and hair growth. That means you may experience side effects. Trust your cancer care team in Ames to help you manage these effects through supportive care, including one-on-one oncology nutrition counseling to help improve your quality of life during treatment.
Scalp Cooling for Chemotherapy
Bliss Cancer Center now offers scalp cooling to patients undergoing Chemotherapy. Scalp cooling helps reduce chemotherapy-induced hair loss, providing emotional and physical comfort during treatment. To learn more about the benefits of scalp cooling and watch a video to see how it works, visit our website.
Some insurance companies are starting to cover scalp cooling. You may apply for a subsidy, if your insurance does not cover scalp cooling.
If you are interested in scalp cooling during chemotherapy, stop by the Cancer Resource Center on Level 2 next to Medical Oncology or call 515-956-6440 to speak with a nurse navigator.
Biotherapy
Also called immunotherapy, biotherapy uses your body’s own immune system to fight cancer. Depending on the specific medicine you’re prescribed, this treatment may work by:
- Helping your immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells
- Stimulating a stronger immune response to cancer
Unlike chemotherapy, biotherapy targets cancer cells more precisely, reducing damage to healthy tissue and limiting side effects.
Your doctor may recommend immunotherapy alongside radiation therapy for many types of cancer, including lung cancer, kidney cancer, and blood cancers.
Hormone Therapy for Breast & Prostate Cancer
Hormone therapy stops or slows the growth of tumors that rely on hormones. Your doctor may recommend this treatment for breast cancer or prostate cancer. You may receive it by infusion therapy or as oral medication taken at home.
Outpatient Infusion Center
If your treatment involves infusion therapy, you’ll visit our modern, welcoming Outpatient Infusion Center. Count on a compassionate oncology nurse to care for you. An onsite cancer pharmacist ensures you receive the right medications and can help you understand how to take them safely at home.
You’re welcome to bring a loved one to treatment sessions. They can relax in our spacious waiting area with free Wi-Fi or visit the nearby healing rooftop garden at Mary Greeley Medical Center.
