Chemotherapy and immunotherapy represent two of the most powerful weapons in the fight against cancer.
Chemotherapy works by directly targeting and destroying rapidly dividing cancer cells, helping to shrink tumours and prevent the disease from spreading. Immunotherapy, on the other hand, harnesses the body's own immune system to recognise and attack cancer with remarkable precision.
Together, these treatments pave the way for more personalised, effective, and less invasive cancer care.
“Chemotherapy and immunotherapy play a vital role in our ongoing fight against cancer. They are not just treatments; they are a significant part of the story of how we fight cancer, offering those confronting it a real chance to fight back.”
Dr James Wilson
Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy
Two of the most commonly used drug treatments today are immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Each works in a different way, and both have helped millions of people manage, live with, and in many cases, overcome cancer.
Immunotherapy represents one of the most exciting advances in cancer care in recent years. Instead of directly killing cancer cells like chemotherapy does, immunotherapy activates your own immune system to recognise and attack cancer. Think of it like giving your immune system the training and support it needs to do what it does best - protect you.
For some patients, immunotherapy not only reduces the cancer but helps the immune system “remember” how to keep it in check, leading to results that last well beyond the active treatment period. I have found this to be especially encouraging for patients with cancers like melanoma and certain types of lung cancer.
Furthermore, immunotherapy has shown promise in people whose cancers haven’t responded to chemotherapy or radiation. Many immunotherapy drugs are tailored to specific types of cancer or even specific genetic markers, making them a more precise and targeted treatment option. For many, immunotherapy has provided a new lifeline where treatment options were once limited.
While immunotherapy has brought new hope to many, chemotherapy remains one of the most important and effective cancer treatments available. It’s a more familiar option—but one that has evolved significantly in recent years to become more precise and better tolerated than in the past.
Chemotherapy works by targeting fast-growing cells, which include cancer cells. It’s often used when cancer has spread or needs to be controlled quickly, and it can be combined with newer treatments like immunotherapy and stereotactic radiotherapy for even greater impact. In many cases, chemotherapy is also used after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to destroy any remaining cancer cells, reducing the risk of recurrence.
Today’s chemotherapy treatments are more manageable than ever before, thanks to significant advances in supportive care. We now have highly effective medications that help reduce nausea, protect against infection, and manage fatigue, common side effects that once made treatment much harder. As a result, many people find they can continue with their everyday activities, including work, family life, and hobbies, while undergoing chemotherapy. Everyone’s experience is different, but our goal is to help you feel as well as possible throughout your treatment.
When we build your treatment plan, we’ll do it together. I understand that facing cancer is deeply personal, and making sense of your options can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ll take the time to explain every choice clearly, so you feel informed, empowered, and supported at every step.
Today, we have more powerful tools than ever before—like immunotherapy and chemotherapy, which remain cornerstones of cancer treatment. I also have access to cutting-edge advances in treatment, including stereotactic radiotherapy, proton beam therapy and breakthrough drug therapies that are changing outcomes and improving my patients' lives. Together, we’ll find the treatment path that’s right for you.
Whether your goal is remission, managing symptoms, or spending more time with loved ones, I’m here to help you access the best care available—quickly and with your needs at the heart of every decision. This is your journey; my exceptional clinical team and I will be with you every step of the way.
My private practice is affiliated with a distinguished group of hospitals in London, tailored to meet your individual needs through compassionate cancer care. One significant advantage of private hospitals is their flexibility; I can help you find the most effective cancer treatment and treatment centre, and you can decide when to undergo treatment. I am here to ensure that your cancer treatment causes the least disruption to your well-being and to support you in managing any side effects quickly and effectively, all while prioritising your well-being.
If you are not based in London, I welcome patients from across the UK and provide initial video consultations to collaboratively develop affordable, personalised cancer care and treatment plans.
Additionally, should you require accommodation, I can assist in arranging a comfortable and convenient place for you to stay near my London practices.
Our Reviews
What people are saying
I have been under Dr Wilsons care since the initial diagnose of skin cancer and Dr Wilson has been extremely supportive since the start , he is very professional, he explained us things in details and easy for us to understand, he has a friendly approach which is very reassuring especially in the initial phase when a patient is faced with the bad news they are receiving. He cares for his patients and also for the people who care for them.( often their partner or best friends). Many people forget how this battle can be hard not only for the patient but for their carers too , and Dr Wilson genuinely cares for the wellbeing (both physical and mental) of his patients and their family, he often asked to my partner, how are you, how are you coping, and I dont know of many doctors who do that. We are grateful to have him as our Doctor.
Paolo and Maryann
Targeted cancer treatments
Targeted Therapy
Proton Beam Therapy
Proton beam therapy (PBT) is a specialised & highly effective radiotherapy that targets lung tumors more accurately, reducing radiation to essential organs and tissues.
Stereotactic radiotherapy (SABR) is a precise, high-dose radiation therapy for early-stage lung cancer. It’s highly effective, and my personal cure rate is 90%.
What is the difference between chemotherapy and immunotherapy?
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill fast-growing cancer cells throughout the body. Immunotherapy, on the other hand, helps your immune system recognise and attack cancer cells more effectively.
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
Your treatment plan is based on the type of cancer, its stage, genetic markers, and your overall health. In some cases, chemotherapy or immunotherapy may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or radiotherapy.
What are the most common side effects of chemotherapy?
Side effects can include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, changes in appetite, and increased risk of infection. However, many of these conditions can now be well-managed with supportive medications.
Will I lose my hair with chemotherapy?
Hair loss depends on the type of chemotherapy drugs used. Not all chemo causes hair loss, and in some cases, cold caps can help reduce hair thinning.
Can I keep working or doing normal activities during treatment?
Many patients are able to continue working or staying active during treatment, depending on how they feel. We’ll support you in adjusting your schedule and managing side effects to help maintain your quality of life.
How is chemotherapy given?
It can be administered through an IV (intravenously), orally as pills, or by injection, depending on the drug and your treatment plan.
What types of cancer can be treated with immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is effective for several types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, and some types of head and neck and blood cancers. New uses continue to be discovered.
What are the side effects of immunotherapy?
Side effects are often milder than chemotherapy but can include fatigue, skin rash, joint pain, or flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, immunotherapy can cause inflammation in organs like the lungs or liver. We’ll support you in adjusting your schedule and managing side effects to help maintain your quality of life.
How long does immunotherapy last?
Treatment length varies depending on your cancer type and how well you respond. Some patients may receive treatment for several months to a few years.
Will I feel better quickly with immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy can take time to work, as it trains your immune system to fight cancer. Some patients may feel better within weeks, while others may take longer to respond.
