What is one of the main reasons for administering chemotherapy?

Administering chemotherapy is primarily aimed at targeting and killing rapidly dividing cancer cells. Cancer cells tend to grow and divide more quickly than most normal cells, making them susceptible to the effects of chemotherapy. This treatment works by disrupting the cancer cells' ability to grow and reproduce, which can lead to a reduction in tumor size and, in some cases, an outright cure of the cancer.

Chemotherapy can also have effects on other rapidly dividing cells in the body, which is why patients may experience side effects like nausea, hair loss, and fatigue. It is an essential part of the oncological treatment arsenal used to manage various forms of cancer and can be utilized either alone or in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy, depending on the specific case.

The other options provided do not represent the purpose of chemotherapy. Curing viral infections is not within the scope of chemotherapy, as it is specifically designed for cancer treatment. Promoting weight gain and increasing appetite are not primary objectives of chemotherapy; in fact, they can be side effects resulting from the treatment itself. Understanding these distinctions is vital for healthcare professionals in providing appropriate care for patients undergoing cancer treatment.