cancer flashcard list psy 605

What is carcinoma?

originates in epithelial cells, which line organs and tissues. Common examples include breast, lung, and colon cancer.

What is sarcoma?

develops in connective tissues like bones, muscles, and fat.

What is leukemia?

cancer of the blood or bone marrow that affects the production of blood cells, especially white blood cells.

What is lymphoma?

cancer that begins in lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) and affects the lymphatic system.

What is melanoma?

that originates in melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation. It is the most dangerous form of skin cancer.

What is the TNM system in cancer staging?

Tumor size, Lymph Node involvement, and Metastasis

What are common diagnostic tests for cancer?

biopsies, blood tests, imaging (CT, MRI, X-rays), and genetic testing.

What is the role of biomarkers in cancer diagnosis?

molecules found in blood or tissue that can indicate the presence of cancer or predict treatment outcomes.

What is chemotherapy?

uses drugs to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells by targeting rapidly dividing cells.

What is radiation therapy?

uses high-energy rays (like X-rays) to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors by damaging their DNA.

What is immunotherapy?

boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer by enhancing immune cell activity or inhibiting immune checkpoints.

What is targeted therapy?

uses drugs that specifically target cancer cells by interfering with molecules involved in tumor growth.

What is hormone therapy in cancer treatment?

involves blocking or altering hormone production to slow or stop cancer growth, commonly used in breast or prostate cancer.

What is surgery's role in cancer treatment?

used to remove cancerous tissue, take biopsies, or treat complications, especially in localized cancers.

What is stem cell transplant?

restore blood-forming stem cells destroyed by cancer treatment, particularly in blood cancers like leukemia.

What are common emotional responses to a cancer diagnosis?

shock, fear, anxiety, sadness, and anger. Patients may also experience a sense of loss.

What is cancer-related fatigue (CRF)?

persistent, overwhelming sense of tiredness that is not relieved by rest and is a common side effect of cancer treatment.

How can cancer affect a patient’s body image?

may lead to visible changes (e.g., hair loss, scars), affecting a patient’s self-esteem and body image.

How can cancer treatment impact a patient's social life?

fatigue, physical changes, and isolation, often leading to a reduced social support network.

What are common coping mechanisms for cancer patients?

seeking support from family, friends, and counselors, using relaxation techniques, and maintaining a sense of control.

What are common risk factors for cancer?

smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, obesity, lack of exercise, exposure to carcinogens, family history, and certain infections.

How does smoking contribute to cancer risk?

introduces carcinogens that can damage DNA and increase the risk of cancers, especially lung, throat, and bladder cancer.

What is the role of genetics in cancer risk?

Inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, increase the risk of certain cancers like breast and ovarian cancer.

How can diet influence cancer risk?

high intake of processed foods, red meats, and low in fruits and vegetables may increase cancer risk, while a balance may reduce it.

What are environmental risk factors for cancer?

exposure to UV radiation, asbestos, chemicals, and pollution, which can increase cancer risk.

How does alcohol consumption contribute to cancer risk?

increases the risk of cancers of the mouth, throat, liver, breast, and colon by acting as a carcinogen and interfering with DNA repair.

What is palliative care?

focuses on providing relief from symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses like cancer.

What is the role of counseling for cancer patients?

helps patients cope with emotional, psychological, and social challenges related to their diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

How do support groups benefit cancer patients?

provide emotional support, a sense of community, and coping strategies for patients facing similar challenges.

What is the significance of family support in cancer care?

key for emotional well-being, practical assistance, and providing a sense of hope during cancer treatment.

What are common side effects of chemotherapy?

nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, anemia, and a weakened immune system.

What is radiation-induced skin damage?

irritation, redness, dryness, and peeling in the treated area.

How does chemotherapy affect the immune system?

suppresses bone marrow function, leading to a reduced number of white blood cells and an increased risk of infections.

What is neuropathy, and how is it related to cancer treatment?

refers to nerve damage caused by chemotherapy or radiation, leading to symptoms like tingling, pain, and numbness, often in the hands and feet.

What is the impact of cancer treatments on fertility?

damages reproductive organs or hormones, making it important for patients to consider these effects

What is cancer survivorship?

phase of living after cancer treatment ends, focusing on health maintenance, emotional well-being, and managing long-term effects.

What are common challenges for cancer survivors?

dealing with the emotional impact of cancer, managing long-term side effects, and reintegrating into normal life post-treatment.

How can lifestyle changes aid in cancer recovery?

regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management can improve physical health and emotional well-being during recovery.

What is the importance of follow-up care in cancer survivorship?

monitoring for recurrence, managing side effects, and ensuring overall health, typically through regular checkups and screenings.

How does cancer recurrence affect survivors?

can lead to anxiety, fear, and uncertainty, making emotional support and treatment planning crucial during this phase.

What is cancer screening?

involves tests and exams used to detect cancer early in asymptomatic individuals, improving the chances of successful treatment.

What are common cancer screening tests?

mammography (for breast cancer), Pap smear (for cervical cancer), colonoscopy (for colorectal cancer), and PSA tests (for prostate cancer).

How can HPV vaccination help prevent cancer?

prevents infections with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus, which can lead to cervical, throat, and other cancers.

What lifestyle changes can help prevent cancer?

quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and protecting skin from UV radiation.

What is the role of genetic counseling in cancer prevention?

helps individuals understand their risk for inherited cancers and make informed decisions about prevention and early detection.

What is precision medicine in cancer treatment?

tailors treatment based on an individual's genetic makeup and the molecular characteristics of their cancer.

What is the role of artificial intelligence in cancer treatment?

AI aids in diagnosing cancer, predicting outcomes, personalizing treatment plans, and identifying new drug therapies.

How does liquid biopsy work in cancer detection?

analyzes blood samples for cancer-related genetic material, enabling early detection and monitoring of treatment response.

What are CAR T-cell therapies in cancer treatment?

involves modifying a patient's T-cells to recognize and attack cancer cells, used in some blood cancers.

What is the role of nutrition during cancer treatment?

key role in maintaining strength, preventing malnutrition, and managing side effects during cancer treatment.