In terms of cancer treatment, what defines 'palliative chemotherapy'?

Palliative chemotherapy is specifically designed to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer, rather than aiming for a complete cure or remission. The primary goal of this treatment approach is to manage the symptoms associated with cancer and its progression, helping patients to feel more comfortable and maintain their daily activities for as long as possible.

While other treatment approaches may focus on eradicating the disease or shrinking tumors with the intent to cure, palliative chemotherapy acknowledges that the cancer may be beyond curative treatment. This is especially relevant in later stages of cancer, where the disease burden can significantly affect a patient's quality of life.

In contrast, other choices may imply approaches that are aimed at more aggressive or curative treatment strategies, which do not align with the purpose of palliative care.