Carcinogenesis: application to clinical practice

The evolution of cancer is an intricate, multistage process involving the interplay of numerous variables that both inhibit and enhance the growth and spread of disease. An understanding of the process of carcinogenesis is vital to successful care of patients with cancer. Nurses play a key role in translating information to patients about prevention and health promotion, diagnostic testing, treatment approaches and side effects, and the need for frequent and long-term follow-up. Many patients and their families are well aware of the continual, often exciting, advances in prevention, detection, and treatment of malignancies. Understandably, they look to oncology nurses and other healthcare professionals for guidance and understanding of how these changes might affect their healthcare decisions.