chapter 33 cancer. effect of aging on the incidence of cancer elderly have the highest rate of most...
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Chapter 33Cancer
Chapter 33Cancer
Effect of Aging on the Incidence of CancerEffect of Aging on the Incidence of Cancer
• Elderly have the highest rate of most cancers and lowest rate of receiving early detection tests.
– Their disease may be in an advanced stage when diagnosed.
• Many elders have other health conditions elevating the risk of complications of cancer.
• There is concern as to how the older patient’s already compromised organs will tolerate chemotherapy.
– Other cancer therapies could impact treatment decisions.
Theories Attempting to Explain High Rate of Cancer in ElderlyTheories Attempting to Explain High Rate of Cancer in Elderly
• Biological changes impair the ability to resist cancer.
– Reduced mitochondrial activity
– Changes in the immune system
• Effects of exposure to carcinogens over the years increase risk of cancer.
– Emphasizes the importance of reducing controllable risk factors.
Risk Factors for CancerRisk Factors for Cancer
• Heredity
• Diet
• Nitrates
• Tobacco
• Alcohol
• Radiation
Risk Factors for Cancer (cont.)Risk Factors for Cancer (cont.)
• Ultraviolet radiation
• Occupational exposure to carcinogens
• Radon
Diet and CancerDiet and Cancer
• High fat diets are linked to certain cancers.
– Diets rich in fiber and antioxidants can offer protection against some cancers.
• Cooking certain meats at high temperatures may increase cancer risk.
• Diets including high intake of well-done fried or barbequed meats may increase risk.
Examples of Carcinogens in the EnvironmentExamples of Carcinogens in the Environment
• Asbestos
• Nickel
• Cadmium
• Uranium
• Radon
• Vinyl chloride
• Benzene
Risk Factors for Cancer in WomenRisk Factors for Cancer in Women
• Age over 50
• Women who had their first menstrual period before the age of 12 or experienced menopause after age 55
• Women who had their first child after age 30
• Women who have a first-degree relative or other relative with breast and/or ovarian cancer
Risk Factors for Cancer in Women (cont.)Risk Factors for Cancer in Women (cont.)
• Women whose mothers took diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy
• Women with relatives who have had colon cancer
• Women using long-term hormonal replacement therapy
Preventive Measures for CancerPreventive Measures for Cancer
• Avoid tobacco products.
• Limit exposure to the sun.
• Eat a diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables.
• Maintain weight within an ideal range.
• Protect against occupational or other exposure to carcinogens.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
Preventive Measures for Cancer (cont.)Preventive Measures for Cancer (cont.)
• Exercise and be physically active.
• Practice safe sex and limit the number of sexual partners.
• Discuss chemoprevention with your physician if family history increases risk of breast cancer.
Recommended Cancer Screening for Older AdultsRecommended Cancer Screening for Older Adults
• Annual check-up
• Annual mammogram
• Annual fecal occult blood test
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
• Double contrast barium enema every 5 years
• Colonoscopy every 10 years
Recommended Cancer Screening for Older Adults (cont.)Recommended Cancer Screening for Older Adults (cont.)
• Pap test: every 2-3 years
• Annual endometrial biopsy for women at high risk for hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer
• Annual Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) and Digital Rectal Examination beginning at age 50
Conventional Cancer Treatment Conventional Cancer Treatment
• Surgery
• Radiation
• Chemotherapy
• Biologic therapy
Complementary and Alternative Methods of Cancer CareComplementary and Alternative Methods of Cancer Care
• Relationship-centered care
• Support
• Healing partnerships
• Comfort
• Hope
American Cancer Society “CAUTION”American Cancer Society “CAUTION”
• Change in bowel or bladder habits
• A sore that does not heal
• Unusual bleeding or drainage
• Thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere
• Indigestion or swallowing difficulty
• Obvious change in a wart or mole
• Nagging persistent cough or hoarseness
Categories of Complementary and Alternative TherapiesCategories of Complementary and Alternative Therapies
• Alternative medical systems (e.g., homeopathic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine)
• Mind-body interventions (e.g., visualizations and relaxation)
• Manipulative and body-based methods (e.g., chiropractic and massage)
• Biologically based therapies (e.g., vitamins and herbal products)
• Energy therapies (e.g., qigong and therapeutic touch)
SourceSource
• Eliopoulos, C. (2005). Gerontological Nursing, (6th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins (ISBN 0-7817-4428-8).
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