Ch 26: Cancer Flashcards
second leading cause of death in persons >65
cancer
aging and cancer
Most new cases are with older adults
Probability of developing increases with age
Comorbidities increase risk of complications, disability, and death
Age is the single most important risk factor for cancer
Delayed screening _ advanced stage at diagnosis
Survival rates are lowe
cancer in older adults can be due to:
-age-related immunity changes that reduce the ability to resist disease and the body’s ability to identify and destroy cancer cells
-prolonged exposure to carcinogens
prevention of cancer
Avoid use of and exposure to tobacco products
Educate about cancer screening
Limit sun exposure, use sunscreen (15-30 SPF), and avoid sunbathing
Eat diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables; reduce intake of red meats, fats, fried foods, and smoked/cured/pickled foods
Exercise and remain physically active; maintain ideal weight
Protect against exposure to radon, nitrates, asbestos, nickel, uranium, benzene
Limit alcohol consumption
Discuss chemoprevention with MD for family risks
importance of screening for cancer
-can predict early detection and improve prognosis
-consider health status and life expectancy
recommended cancer screenings for older adults
Mammogram & clinical breast exam Q2 years until 75
Colorectal screening until 75; 75-85 consult provider
Low-dose CT up to 75 for those with 30-pack year history, currently smoke, or quit within 15 years for lung CA
PSA tests after 70 not necessary if life expectancy >10 more years
Cervical cancer screening stops after 65 if normal for 10 years
treatment for older adults with cancer
Plan depends on certain cancer
—Surgery, chemo, radiation, biologic therapy
Persons >70 have increased risk of surgical complications and mortality
Advanced age can affect pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cytotoxic drugs and increase risk of complications
No significant difference in ability to tolerate radiation therapy
Support physical, emotional, and spiritual needs
Promote the best quality of life in the presence of disease
complementary and alternative medicine
Holistic treatment
Includes a variety of therapies
–Acupuncture
–Psychotherapy
–Spiritual practices
–Vitamin Supplements
–Herbal therapies
–Special diets
Focused on:
–Relationship-centered care
–Support
–Healing partnerships
–Comfort
–Hope
Carefully weigh risks and benefits
–Assess for use with every assessment
–Encourage client to report usage
Safety and effectiveness not always proven
Educate
education for cancer in older adults
Cancer prevention in the younger age affects older age
Teach cancer warning signs
Assess for self-examination of cancer
promote optimum care in cancer in older adults
Requires same basic care for anyone with cancer, but may have challenges
Closely monitor for complications
Refer to oncology centers or National Cancer Institute
providing support for older adults with cancer
To family and client
Assess client understanding & misconceptions and provide education as needed
Address fears
Be sensitive to the client’s spiritual and emotional status
Be ready for a variety of reactions
CAUTION UP warning signs of cancer
C: hange in bowel or bladder
A: lesion that does not heal
U: nusual bleeding or discharge
T: hickening or lump
I: ndigestion or difficulty swallowing
O: bvious changes in wart or mole
N: agging cough or persistent hoarseness
U: nexplained weight loss
P: ernicious anemia
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cancer screenings
397 box
risk factors
