Which of the following is a common side effect of chemotherapy?

Which of the following is a common side effect of chemotherapy?

• A. Increased energy levels
• B. Hair loss
• C. Heightened immunity
• D. Weight gain

Answer: (B)

Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy due to the impact that many chemotherapeutic agents have on rapidly dividing cells, which includes not only cancer cells but also healthy cells such as those in hair follicles. The treatment disrupts the normal growth cycle of hair, leading to thinning or complete loss of hair, a phenomenon known as alopecia. This can occur on the scalp as well as other areas of the body. In contrast, increased energy levels may not be expected as chemotherapy often leads to fatigue and weakness. Heightened immunity is typically not associated with chemotherapy; rather, treatment can suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. Weight gain is also generally not a side effect of chemotherapy; instead, many patients experience weight loss due to decreased appetite, nausea, or other side effects of treatment. Thus, hair loss is a well-recognized and documented side effect, making it the correct answer.

Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy due to the impact that many chemotherapeutic agents have on rapidly dividing cells, which includes not only cancer cells but also healthy cells such as those in hair follicles. The treatment disrupts the normal growth cycle of hair, leading to thinning or complete loss of hair, a phenomenon known as alopecia. This can occur on the scalp as well as other areas of the body.

In contrast, increased energy levels may not be expected as chemotherapy often leads to fatigue and weakness. Heightened immunity is typically not associated with chemotherapy; rather, treatment can suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. Weight gain is also generally not a side effect of chemotherapy; instead, many patients experience weight loss due to decreased appetite, nausea, or other side effects of treatment. Thus, hair loss is a well-recognized and documented side effect, making it the correct answer.