Comprehensive Cancer and Reproductive Health: Definitions, Risks, and Treatments

What is the definition of cancer?

Malignant, unregulated cellular proliferation with altered differentiation, often due to genetic mutation.

What are common risk factors for cancer?

Advancing age, genetic predisposition, cigarette smoking, obesity, pathogens (HPV, hepatitis), lack of activity, and poor diet.

What are the general manifestations of cancer?

Symptoms include fatigue, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, and tumor-specific or paraneoplastic syndromes.

What is Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS)?

A complication where tumor lysis releases potassium, purines, and phosphorus, leading to hyperkalemia, renal failure, and hypocalcemia.

What are the goals of cancer treatment?

To prolong survival and/or improve quality of life through curative, remission, control, or palliative approaches.

What is the purpose of cancer screenings?

To detect cancer early (secondary prevention) through methods like mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopies.

What are the main types of breast cancer screening?

Clinical breast exams (CBE), mammography, and breast self-exams (BSE).

What are the primary risk factors for breast cancer?

Being an older woman, genetic factors, and personal or family history of breast cancer.

What is the significance of HPV in women's reproductive health?

HPV is linked to cervical cancer and is a key reason for regular Pap smear screenings.

What are the symptoms of endometrial cancer?

Postmenopausal bleeding is always abnormal and a key symptom.

What is the common treatment for ovarian cancer?

Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and palliative care.

What is benign breast disease?

Conditions like fibroadenoma and fibrocystic changes that are not cancerous but may require monitoring.

What are the common complications after prostate surgery?

Bleeding, infection, and bladder spasms.

What is the role of testosterone in men's reproductive health?

Testosterone levels are assessed for libido and erectile dysfunction.

What are the signs of prostate cancer?

Symptoms may include LUTS, acute urinary retention, and renal insufficiency.

What are the common medications for BPH?

5-alpha reductase inhibitors (finasteride, dutasteride) and alpha blockers (tamsulosin, doxazosin).

What is the importance of patient teaching in cancer care?

To reinforce screenings, medications, postoperative care, and psychosocial support.

What is the recommended follow-up for women after a hysterectomy?

Monitoring for infection, bleeding, and managing psychological impacts.

What is the significance of the TNM staging system?

It classifies cancer based on tumor size (T), lymph node involvement (N), and metastasis (M).

What are the common side effects of chemotherapy?

Bone marrow suppression leading to anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia.

What is the role of hydration in managing Tumor Lysis Syndrome?

Hydration helps prevent complications like hyperkalemia and renal failure.

What are the psychosocial considerations for patients with cancer?

Concerns about body image, intimacy, fear of recurrence, and anxiety.

What is the recommended age for women to start Pap smears?

At age 21 or when sexually active, continuing until age 65.

What is the role of prophylactic mastectomy?

To reduce the risk of breast cancer in women with a high genetic risk.

What is the significance of monitoring for lymphedema after breast surgery?

To prevent complications related to fluid retention and swelling.

What are the common symptoms of testicular cancer?

Painless lump, heaviness in the scrotum, and dull ache.