Chapter 2: An Overview of Oncology Rehabilitation, Updated 2 Contact Hours
Expiration Date : June 3, 2025 Learning objectives
Summarize the types of cancer, the means and the methods of diagnosing cancer, and the information compiled in order to determine the staging of cancer. Describe the various treatment options for cancer. Discuss the side effects and complications that can result from cancer treatments;. Course overview Cancer results when cells within the body begin to divide uncontrollably and reproduce in a way that is abnormal. This type of errant cell production can occur in nearly any tissue and results in significant health problems for millions of individuals each year. The abnormal cell production often produces masses, or tumors; this can also occur within blood cells (leukemia). Tumors can either be malignant (cancerous) or benign (not cancerous). Cancer cells sometimes spread out to other areas of the body through the blood and the body’s lymphatic systems; when this happens, it is said that the cancer has “metastasized.” Metastasis can occur at different rates, and often determines what treatment approaches will be utilized. Cancer can be caused by both external and internal factors, some of which can be controlled. Examples of external factors include tobacco usage, infectious organisms, and an unhealthy diet; internal factors often refer to inherited genetic mutations, hormones, and immune conditions. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 30% of all U.S. cancer deaths are caused by cigarette smoking (American Cancer Society, 2020). In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 40% of all diagnosed cancers are associated with being overweight or obesity (CDC, 2020). Implicit bias in healthcare Implicit bias significantly affects how healthcare professionals perceive and make treatment decisions, ultimately resulting in disparities in health outcomes. These biases, often unconscious and unintentional, can shape behavior and produce differences in medical care along various lines, including race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and socioeconomic status. Healthcare disparities stemming from implicit bias can manifest in several ways. For example, a healthcare provider might unconsciously give less attention to a patient or make assumptions about their medical needs based on race, gender, or age. The unconscious assumptions can lead to delayed or inadequate care, misdiagnoses, or inappropriate treatments, all of which can adversely impact health outcomes. Addressing
Identify the phases, goals, and components of a rehabilitation plan for an oncology patient. Explain the role of exercise and exercise prescription recommendations in cancer rehabilitation and survivorship. Identify assessment tools used in cancer rehabilitation.
Although some individuals presumably do everything right, cancer may still occur. About 25% of lung cancers worldwide occur in people who have never smoked. Environmental factors that are entirely out of our control have a direct effect on health, as does one’s gender or being born with a “faulty” cancer gene. A mother’s diet can even affect her child’s future health while in utero. Patients who survive cancer often have reduced function and quality of life related to preexisting medical conditions, side effects from cancer treatments, or the cancer itself (American Cancer Society, 2020). Their impairments can include weakness, decreased endurance, swelling, and restricted mobility. Although there is a high occurrence of cancer-related disability, rehabilitation continues to be underutilized with only 1-2% of patients receiving treatment (American Cancer Society, 2020). As more patients participate in oncology rehabilitation, it isimportant for physical therapists to understand the precautions, contraindications, and appropriate treatment methods for this population. This intermediate-level course will familiarize the physical therapist with the different forms of cancer, as well as the risk factors and rehabilitation protocols for the care of the oncology patient. The target audience for this education program is physical therapists and physical therapist assistants who are interested in oncology rehabilitation. implicit bias in healthcare is crucial for achieving equity in medical treatment. Strategies to combat these biases involve education and awareness programs for healthcare professionals. These programs help individuals recognize and acknowledge their biases, fostering a more empathetic and unbiased approach to patient care. Additionally, implementing policies and procedures prioritizing equitable treatment for all patients can play a pivotal role in reducing healthcare disparities. Ultimately, confronting implicit bias in healthcare is essential to creating a more just and equitable healthcare system where everyone receives fair and equal treatment regardless of their background or characteristics.
TYPES OF CANCER
There are more than 100 types of cancer according to the National Cancer Institute at the National Institute of Health (National Cancer Institute, 2015). The types of cancer are classified by specific types of cells in which the cancer begins: carcinoma, sarcoma, leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, Carcinomas Carcinoma is formed by epithelial cells that cover the inside and outside surfaces of the body. It is the most common type of cancer. Carcinomas are named by the types of originating cells as in the following examples:
melanoma, and brain/spinal cord tumors. Some cancers are named after whoever discovered them, such as Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Wilms’ tumor, and Ewing’s sarcoma. Others, such as prostate cancer and colon cancer, are referred to by the body site. ● Adenocarcinoma : Begins in glandular tissues, including breast, colon, and prostate. ● Basal cell carcinoma : Begins in the basal level of the epidermis (outer layer of skin).
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