What is the goal of the induction phase of chemotherapy?

• A. Improve appetite
• B. Manage pain
• C. Achieve remission as quickly as possible
• D. Eliminate all cancer cells

Answer: (C)

The induction phase is about rapidly shrinking the cancer to the point where remission is achieved. By using aggressive combination chemotherapy at the start, clinicians aim for a quick and substantial reduction in tumor burden, which often relieves symptoms and improves long-term outcomes. Remission means there is no detectable cancer with current testing, but it doesn’t always mean every single cancer cell has been killed; microscopic residual disease can remain. That’s why subsequent phases, like consolidation and maintenance, work to eradicate remaining cells and prevent relapse.

Options focusing on appetite improvement or pain management describe supportive care, not the primary goal of induction. And while complete elimination of all cancer cells would be ideal, it’s not guaranteed with the first, most intensive phase; the goal is to induce remission first, then pursue further treatment to deepen and sustain that response.