Exam 3 chronic illnesses pt 3

Cancer Overview

Second leading cause of death worldwide; 1.9 million new cases and 610,000 deaths annually; 68% of new cases survive at least 5 years.

What is Cancer?

Disease of uncontrolled cell growth forming tumors (neoplasms). Types include carcinoma (organs/skin), melanoma (pigment cells), lymphoma (lymphatic system), sarcoma (muscle/bone), and leukemia (blood).

Common Cancer Types

Skin Cancer (3.5M cases/year); Prostate Cancer (221K, 100% early survival); Breast Cancer (232K, 99% early, 85% spread); Lung Cancer (221K, 54% localized, 17% spread); Colorectal Cancer (132K, 90% early, 65% overall).

Cancer Physiology

Carcinogens cause abnormal cell growth; uncontrolled cells form neoplasms, which can spread via metastasis to other organs.

Benign vs. Malignant Neoplasms

Benign = harmless; malignant = harmful. Malignant tumors steal nutrients, block organ function, and can cause death or infection.

Cancer Risk Factors

UV exposure, hazardous chemicals, genetic vulnerabilities, age, smoking, poor diet, obesity, and chronic stress.

Cancer Treatment Overview

Early detection increases survival. Goal = remove all neoplasms or achieve remission. Common treatments: surgery, radiation, chemotherapy.

Surgery (Cancer Treatment)

Removes cancerous tissue; often combined with radiation or chemo. Not always possible if cancer has spread widely.

Radiation Therapy

High-dose radiation destroys cancerous cells; malignant cells can’t repair themselves effectively. Delivered externally or via radioactive injections.

Chemotherapy

Uses powerful drugs to kill rapidly dividing cells throughout the body; side effects include hair loss, fatigue, nausea, and weakened immunity.

Psychosocial Effects of Cancer Treatment

Emotional and physical side effects—fatigue, nausea, hair loss, sexual dysfunction, and fear of recurrence. Patients often show strong treatment adherence.

Psychosocial Interventions for Cancer

Counseling for adjustment and emotional regulation; promote healthy behaviors (e.g., smoking cessation); support from family improves outcomes.

HIV / AIDS Overview

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks CD4 T-cells; if untreated, progresses to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Weakens immune system, causing vulnerability to infections.

HIV / AIDS Statistics

37 million worldwide; highest rates among 20–29-year-olds; 3× higher in men; 1.7 million new infections and 700,000 deaths annually.

HIV Physiology

Virus infects CD4 T-cells, replicates, and destroys them. Weakens immune system over time; progression to AIDS can take years, leading to fever, fatigue, diarrhea, and swollen lymph glands.

HIV Transmission Routes

Unprotected sex, shared needles, mother-to-child transmission, or (rarely) blood transfusions. Not transmitted through casual contact, hugging, or insects.

HIV Risk Factors

Influenced by biological, social, and economic conditions; stigma and lack of awareness increase spread.

HIV / AIDS Treatment

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) suppresses viral replication and maintains immune function. Goal: U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable). Requires lifelong adherence.

HIV Prevention

Use of PrEP, PEP, condoms, needle exchange programs, and regular testing to prevent infection.

Physical Effects of HIV / AIDS

Fatigue, fever, weight loss, infections, and neurological symptoms.

Emotional and Family Effects

Fear, anxiety, depression, and stigma; caregiver stress, financial strain, and relational challenges.

Psychosocial Factors (HIV / AIDS)

Stigma, discrimination, and fear of disclosure reduce testing and adherence. Negative emotions (hopelessness, isolation) can speed disease progression.

Psychosocial Interventions (HIV / AIDS)

Counseling for coping and adherence; support groups to reduce stigma; mental health and substance use services; education to counter misinformation.

Key Message

With treatment and support, individuals with HIV can live long, healthy lives.