Cancer Flashcards
(13 cards)
Define: Cancer
when cells in the body grow uncontrollably and can spread to other parts, causing harm.
Define: Tumour
is a lump or swelling made of extra cells that grow in the body. It can be harmless (benign) or harmful (cancerous)
Define: Benign
means a growth or tumour that is not cancer and usually does not spread or harm the body
Define: Malignant
means a growth or tumour that is cancerous, can grow quickly, and spread to other parts of the body.
Define: Metastasis
is when cancer cells spread from one part of the body to another
Define: Carcinogen
is something that can cause cancer, like certain chemicals, smoke, or radiation
In Canada, what is the most common cancer in women, men, and children?
Women - Breast Cancer
Men - Prostate Cancer
Children - Leukaemia
Identify risk factors for the development of cancer
- smoking / alcohol
- poor diet
- too much sun (UV exposure)
- lack of exercise
- certain infections
- family history of cancer
- exposure to harmful chemicals or radiation
What are the warning signs of cancer?
- a lump or swelling made
- unexplained weight loss
- sores that don’t heal
- unusual bleeding or discharge
- persistent cough or hoarseness
- difficulty swallowing
- feeling tired all the time
What are the four goals of treatment
Cure - completely get rid of the cancer
Control - keep cancer from growing or spreading
Relieve symptoms - reduce pain / discomfort
Improve Quality of Life - help the patient feel better and live well
What are the three major cancer treatments?
Surgery - remove cancer
Chemotherapy - using drugs to kill cancer cells
Radiation Therapy - using high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells
What are the side effects of Radiation Therapy?
- tiredness
- skin changes (redness, dryness)
- hair loss in treated area
- nausea
What are the side effects of Chemotherapy?
- tiredness
- hair loss
- nausea / vomiting
- loss of appetite
- weak immune system
