Cancer

Cancer

Uncontrolled cell growth leading to potentially serious health problems.

Stage 1 Cancer

Cells differ slightly from normal cells and are well differentiated; carcinoma in situ.

Stage 2 Cancer

Cells more abnormal and moderately differentiated; tumor limited to tissue of origin.

Stage 3 Cancer

Cells very abnormal and poorly differentiated; limited local spread.

Stage 4 Cancer

Cells are immature, undifferentiated, and the cell of origin is difficult to determine; local and regional spread.

Metastasis

The spread of cancer from the primary site to distant sites in the body.

Diagnostic tests for cancer

Include mammogram, pap smear, rectal exam, colonoscopy, skin inspection, and biopsy.

Chemotherapy

A drug treatment that uses powerful chemicals to kill fast-growing cells in the body.

Common side effects of chemotherapy

Include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, hair loss, fatigue, fever, and mouth sores.

Post-operative care

Involves assessing airway, breathing, circulation, and pain while monitoring vital signs and managing fluids.

Vitamin D

Important for strong bones; deficiency can lead to rickets in children and increased fracture risk in adults.

Vitamin K

Helps blood to clot and prevents serious bleeding; crucial for newborns to avoid vitamin K deficiency bleeding.

Breast cancer risk factors

Include being female, over 50, having a first-degree relative with a history, BRCA mutations, and lifestyle factors.

Post-operative exercises

Include deep breathing, coughing, leg exercises, and maintaining mobility to promote recovery.

Recovery after chemotherapy

May involve side effects management and pre-treatment preparations like blood tests and catheter assessment.

Discharge requirements post-surgery

Patient must be conscious, oriented, breathing easily, with stable vital signs and adequate intake and output.