Systemic Anti Cancer Treatment (SACT)

Systemic Anti-Cancer Treatment (SACT) refers to therapies that treat cancer throughout the body, not just at the site where it started. At Nova Healthcare, SACT includes chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, biological therapies, and combination approaches. These treatments are delivered in a consultant-led, patient-centred environment with highly skilled nurses and a dedicated multidisciplinary team supporting you every step of the way.

Types of SACT Therapies

1. Chemotherapy

• Uses drugs to kill or disrupt the growth of cancer cells.

• Can be administered via injection, drip, or tablets, alone or in combination with other treatments.

• May be given to:

  • Shrink a tumour before surgery or radiotherapy

  • Reduce the risk of cancer returning after surgery or radiotherapy

  • Treat cancer that has spread

  • Act as a standalone treatment for highly sensitive cancers

2. Targeted Therapy

• Drugs that specifically attack cancer cells or the mechanisms that help them grow, often sparing healthy cells.

• Often guided by genetic or molecular markers in your tumour.

• Examples: Tyrosine kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies

3. Immunotherapy

• Boosts the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells.

• Used in certain cancers such as lung cancer and melanoma.

• Examples: Checkpoint inhibitors, immune checkpoint antibodies

4. Hormone (Endocrine) Therapy

• Blocks or reduces hormones that fuel certain cancers, such as breast or prostate cancer.

• Can be given as tablets, injections, or implants.

5. Biological Therapies / Monoclonal Antibodies

• Mimic or enhance the body’s natural anti-cancer mechanisms.

• Often used alongside chemotherapy or targeted therapy.

• Examples: Rituximab (for lymphoma), trastuzumab (for HER2-positive breast cancer)

6. Combination and Sequential SACT

• Many cancers respond best to carefully planned combinations or sequences of therapies.

• Treatment is personalised to maximise effectiveness while minimising side effects and maintaining quality of life.

Cancers Treated at Nova

We provide SACT for a wide range of cancers, including:

• Brain tumours

• Breast cancer

• Gastro-intestinal cancer

• Head and neck cancer

• Leukaemia

• Lung cancer

• Lymphoma

• Metastatic disease

• Myeloma

• Prostate cancer

• Sarcoma

• Skin cancer

• Testicular cancer

Why Choose SACT at Nova Healthcare?

• Personalised care: Your treatment plan is tailored to your cancer type, stage, and individual needs.

• Consultant-led pathway: Access to your preferred consultant and consistent care throughout treatment.

• Specialist nurses: Experienced SACT nurses deliver treatments in a peaceful, private, state-of-the-art chemotherapy suite and provide ongoing advice via phone or email.

• Latest therapies: Access to the newest drugs, protocols, and clinical guidance.

• Holistic support: Education, monitoring, and guidance to help you navigate treatment with confidence and comfort.

At Nova, our goal is to provide comprehensive, patient-centred care, ensuring your treatment journey is safe, effective, and supported from start to finish.

Book an Appointment

If you have any questions or would like to book a consultation, please contact us or call 0113 206 7503.