What is the primary goal of neoadjuvant chemotherapy?

The primary goal of neoadjuvant chemotherapy is to shrink tumors before surgery. This approach is particularly valuable in the treatment of certain cancers, where reducing tumor size can make surgical intervention more effective and less extensive. By administering chemotherapy prior to surgery, healthcare providers aim to minimize the extent of the surgical procedure, increase the likelihood of achieving clear margins (the area around the tumor that is free of cancer), and potentially improve overall surgical outcomes.

This strategy also allows for early assessment of how the tumor responds to chemotherapy, which can inform subsequent treatment plans. The focus is on making tumors more manageable for surgical removal, thus enhancing the chances of a successful outcome and providing a better prognosis for the patient.

While the other options might pertain to different aspects of cancer treatment and care, they do not relate directly to the main focus of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, which is specifically aimed at tumor size reduction prior to surgical intervention.