Can metastatic cancer be treated?

Yes. According to the National Cancer Institute, there are treatments for most types of metastatic cancer.

Often, the goal of treating metastatic cancer is to control it by stopping or slowing its growth. Some people can live for years with metastatic cancer that is well controlled. Other treatments may improve quality of life by relieving symptoms; this type of care is called palliative care, and it can be given at any point during cancer treatment.

The treatment a person may have depends on the type of primary (original) cancer, where it has spread, treatments they have had in the past, and their general health.

Even if a cancer can no longer be controlled, palliative care is always available to control symptoms of cancer and side effects of treatment. Researchers also continue to study new ways to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells, such as helping the immune system fight cancer and targeting specific genetic changes in tumors.

A healthcare team is the best source of information about treatment options for a specific cancer, including clinical trials.