Cancer Study Notes
1. Pathophysiology of Cancer
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth and division of abnormal cells in the body. It occurs due to
genetic mutations that disrupt normal cell cycle regulation. These mutations can be caused by:
Genetic predisposition
Environmental factors (radiation, chemicals, toxins)
Lifestyle factors (smoking, diet, alcohol consumption)
Infections (e.g., HPV, Hepatitis B & C)
Chronic inflammation
Cancer cells evade apoptosis (programmed cell death), stimulate angiogenesis (blood vessel
formation), and metastasize (spread to other organs).
2. Stages of Cancer
Cancer is classified into stages based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and metastasis:
Stage 0 – Carcinoma in situ (abnormal cells present but not spread)
Stage I – Localized tumor, small, and has not spread to lymph nodes
Stage II & III – Larger tumors with possible lymph node involvement
Stage IV – Metastatic cancer, spread to distant organs
3. Types of Cancer
Cancer can originate from different tissues and is classified accordingly:
Carcinomas – From epithelial cells (e.g., breast, lung, colon cancer)
Sarcomas – From connective tissue (e.g., bone, muscle cancer)
Leukemias – From blood-forming tissues (e.g., blood cancer)
Lymphomas – From the lymphatic system (e.g., Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s
lymphoma)
Central nervous system (CNS) cancers – From brain and spinal cord cells
4. Cancer Prevention
Reducing the risk of cancer involves lifestyle changes and early detection:
Avoid tobacco & limit alcohol consumption
Maintain a healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains)
Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
Get vaccinated (HPV, Hepatitis B)
Protect against sun exposure (use sunscreen, avoid tanning beds)
Regular screenings (e.g., mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears)
5. Diagnosis of Cancer
Cancer diagnosis involves various tests:
Imaging tests – X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, PET scans
Biopsy – Sample tissue examination under a microscope
Blood tests – Tumor markers (e.g., PSA for prostate cancer, CA-125 for ovarian cancer)
Genetic testing – Identifying hereditary cancer risk
6. Cancer Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer:
Surgery – Removal of the tumor
Radiation therapy – High-energy rays to destroy cancer cells
Chemotherapy – Drugs to kill or slow cancer cell growth
Immunotherapy – Boosts the immune system to fight cancer
Targeted therapy – Drugs that target specific cancer cell mechanisms
Hormone therapy – Blocks hormones that fuel certain cancers (e.g., breast, prostate
cancer)
Stem cell transplant – Replaces damaged blood-forming cells
7. Complications of Cancer
Cancer and its treatments can lead to complications such as:
Metastasis – Spread to other organs
Infections – Due to a weakened immune system
Organ failure – Resulting from tumor burden or treatment side effects
Nutritional deficiencies – Due to cancer’s impact on metabolism
Psychological distress – Depression, anxiety, and emotional stress
8. Potential Side Effects and Management
Cancer treatment may cause various side effects, which require proper management:
Fatigue – Encourage rest, balanced diet, and light exercise
Nausea & Vomiting – Use anti-nausea medications and small, frequent meals
Hair Loss – Offer support with wigs, scarves, and gentle hair care
Anemia – Manage with iron supplements and blood transfusions if needed
Pain – Use pain medications, physical therapy, and relaxation techniques
Lymphedema – Manage with compression therapy and physical exercises
Cognitive Impairment (“Chemo Brain”) – Encourage mental exercises and memory
aids
Summary
This study guide covers the essential aspects of cancer, including its development, classification,
prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management. Understanding these key points is crucial for
nursing students, healthcare professionals, and anyone studying oncology.
