Foltz A T, Mahon S M
University of Central Florida, Orlando, USA.
Oncol Nurs Forum. 2000 Oct;27(9 Suppl):5-11.
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To apply current cancer development theory to concepts of and interventions for cancer prevention.
Current medical and nursing literature.
Carcinogenesis is a complex process that is only partially understood. The information that is available supports efforts to control the disease. However, the lack of detailed understanding limits attempts to alter the course of cancer.
The understanding that cancer is the result of cumulative genetic errors can be used to direct oncology nursing interventions to prevent the disease.
Oncology nurses should be aware of the various factors that influence cancer development to prescribe primary prevention measures. Nurses also must be aware that efforts to understand carcinogenesis and exploit that knowledge are ongoing. Awareness of advances in the understanding of cancer development are keys to appropriate patient care.
