Adjuvant chemotherapy is typically prescribed for what purpose?

Adjuvant chemotherapy is specifically used as a follow-up treatment after surgery to enhance the chances of survival and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. This type of therapy aims to eliminate any remaining cancer cells that may not have been removed during surgery or that could lead to metastatic disease. By administering chemotherapy following the surgical procedure, the goal is to target any microscopic disease that could potentially grow and cause a relapse in the patient.

The timing of administering adjuvant chemotherapy is vital; it typically starts after the primary treatment (surgery) has been completed. This strategy is particularly effective for certain cancers where there's a high risk of recurrence, such as breast, colon, and some lung cancers. Hence, employing chemotherapy in this context serves a crucial role in comprehensive cancer treatment by giving patients the best possible outcome post-surgery.