Abstract This paper gives general information about coloncancer including its signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. The paper defines coloncancer (also called colorectal or large bowel cancer) as cancerous growths in the colon and the rectum.
Outline:
Signs and Symptoms
Causes/ Risk Factors
Diagnosis
Prevention
Treatment
From the Paper "When colon cancer is suspected, barium enema x-ray or colonoscopy is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis and to find out the exact location of the tumor. For the barium enema x-ray, the patient is given an enema with white chalky liquid containing barium; it helps to outline the large intestine, and the tumors are then detectable as dark shadows on the x-rays. Colonoscopy consists of a procedure in which a long flexible tube is inserted via the rectum for inspecting the inside of the colon. If colon polyps are found, they are removed through the colonoscope and examined in the lab for cancer and for pre-cancerous growth ("Colon Cancer" Mayo Clinic, 2008). "
Abstract The paper discusses coloncancer, a specific type of cancer that has been shown to be influenced by both genetic elements and lifestyle factors. The paper examines how the risk of cancer to the individual may be affected by both, and while nothing can be done about the existence of family history or genetic factors in the make-up of the individual, much can be done to address those lifestyle factors that may contribute to the development of this type of cancer. The paper concludes that an increase in physical activity and changes in diet can dramatically lower a person's predisposition to coloncancer.
Outline:
Physical Activity
Diet
Recommendations
Conclusion
Works Cited
From the Paper "Overweight, and a lack of activity, is believed to be one of the major reasons for the increase in an overweight condition in the U.S., with increased TV watching linked to excessive weight. Both men and women are at risk for colon cancer, with African-Americans more at risk than whites. Regular screenings are essential because there are no symptoms in the early stages of the disease."
Abstract This paper discusses coloncancer, with emphasis on the difficulties of diagnosis and the wide range of options available for early detection. It considers family history and genetic factors and looks at the pros and cons of the various diagnostic tests available, including a few still in development. It covers ways to detect a genetic predisposition to the disease. Since coloncancer often does not give early symptoms, it emphasizes the need for careful monitoring, especially in people particularly susceptible to this disease. The paper describes how coloncancer is treated once diagnosed.
From the Paper "Colon cancer is the second-highest occurring cancer in the United States, beaten out for first place only by lung cancer. In medical terms, the colon includes the entire large intestine (Columbia Ency, 2004).
Colon cancer can have several contributing causes. Diets too high in fat and not high in fiber sources, such as fruit, vegetables and whole grain, correlates with a higher incidence of colon cancer. However, it is also more common in anyone with a family history of colon cancer, and even a history of cancer in the female reproduction system. Polyps in the colon and a medical history of ulcerative colitis are risk factors."
Abstract This paper describes what coloncancer is and looks at its etiology. Symptoms and treatments are then discussed, followed by a study of the prognosis of the disease. Screening methods and early detection methods are then presented.
From the Paper "As a malignant neoplastic disease, colorectal cancer affects the large intestine and is characterized by melena, a change in bowel habits and the passing of blood. Malignant tumors of the large bowel usually occur after the age of fifty and are slightly more frequent in women than in men. The high incidence of colorectal cancer in the United States suggests that a diet high in refined carbohydrates and beef and low in roughage may be a causative factor. The risk of large bowel cancer is increased in chronic ulcerative colitis and especially in familial polyposis of the colon, meaning that it can be inherited."
Abstract This paper researches the processes of colorectal cancer screening in African-American women and discusses serious issue of the the lack of utilization among African-American women aged 50 and older of colorectal screening implements.
Articles:
ColonCancer Screening in African American Women
Elderly African American Women's Knowledge and Belief About Colorectal Cancer ColonCancer Screening Among Older Caregivers
From the Paper "The sample size selected represents the sample most relevant in this case, as comprehensive information was gathered from previous studies directing the researcher to the correct sample size and population demographics for this particular study. The researchers make logical conclusions and the study presents multiple implications for future research in the health care arena. The research conclusions may apply to multiple patients facing educational barriers to healthcare screening and treatment. This research suggests that nursing practice would benefit by understanding the needs of divergent populations and accommodating their educational and informational needs accordingly. Knowledge about a particularly groups beliefs and concerns that may prevent adequate treatment can help guide nursing protocols and patient delivery in the future. "
Abstract The paper examines the adenoma to carcinoma sequence proposed by B. Volgenstein and E.R. Fearon. The paper explains how this model acts as a basis for understanding the mechanisms which are thought to cause eighty per cent of sporadic coloncancers and cases of familial adenematous polyposis. The paper also describes an alternative pathway resulting in microsatellite instability and thought to underlie cases of hereditary non polyposis coloncancer. In addition, the paper looks at the molecular events involving mutated mismatch repair enzymes.
From the Paper "Colorectal cancer causes approximately 15,000 deaths per year in the U.K and about 30,000 individuals are diagnosed with it each year making it the second most common cause of death from cancer. Of these, about 70% are colon cancers which affect men and women and are much more prevalent in the Western World than India or Asia. About 25% of colon cancers occur where there's a family history of it but only 5% are due to known familial syndromes. These include Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP); a mendelian dominant disorder which sees a germline mutation of APC and hereditary non polyposis colon cancer (HNPCC); a disorder in which germline mutations in mismatch repair enzymes are caused. The other 20% of clusters of colon cancer in families are unexplained but postulated risks are "mild" APC and mismatch repair gene mutations or polymorphisms of genes involved in nutrient or carcinogen metabolism and also non genetic factors. The main proportion of colon cancer though arises from sporadic adenomatous polyps (75%)."
Abstract This paper discusses how coloncancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the US and Canada and how it is vital to alert ourselves to this problem, so that we can help all those effected and prevent future generations from suffering and dying from the disease. In particular, the paper contends that the key to avoiding this cancer may be the person's lifestyle, and their nutritional intake. It looks at how the main nutrients that seem to be getting the headlines in relation to coloncancer are red meat, fibre, and folic acid, and as such, this paper focuses mainly on these headlines.
Outline:
Exercise
Healthy Diet
Red Meat
Fibre
Folate
Calcium, Vitamin D & Antioxidants
Lifestyle
Education & Screening
Looking to the Future
From the Paper "Another important nutrient, or more accurately vitamin, is folate [22,23]. Folate, and its synthetic form, folic acid, play critical roles in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, in addition to aiding many areas of our metabolism [22,23]. Since cancer is almost always caused by some sort of damage to the cells genetic material, it is easy to understand that reduced intakes of folate can increase the risk of colorectal cancers, and experimental research seems to demonstrate it as well [22-24]. Conversely, increased intakes of folate are associated with reducing the risk of colorectal cancer by 50-60%, especially in people who consumed above the recommended intakes of alcohol [23,24]. There is still the matter of further human medical investigations to be done, as currently much of the positive folate outcomes detailed, are from researches done with animals [23]."
Abstract This paper explains that prostate cancer is the most frequent non-dermatological cancer in men in the United States and it is second to lung cancer as the leading cause of cancer deaths in men. The author points out that, as with other cancers such as breast and coloncancer, which have a familial clustering pattern; prostate cancer cases are believed to be due to a high risk of inherited genetic factors or perhaps even a susceptibility gene. The paper relates that increasing incidence of prostate cancer may be due to better detection, greater awareness on the part of the public of the condition and perhaps even a greater life expectancy with a decrease in the number of competing causes of death rather than a true increase in the prevalence of prostate cancer on the whole.
From the Paper "It is interesting to note that maternal cancers also seem to have an affect on the risk of prostate cancers. It is felt that risk of prostate cancer is higher in men with a family history of breast cancer and/or ovarian cancer in a primary relative. This was only reported out in two studies, however, and other studies failed to find any association between family history of female breast cancer and greater risk of prostate cancer. This perhaps may be explained by the questionable increase in prostate cancer in men with BRCA 1 / 2 mutations in the setting of a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. "
Abstract Cancer is a cause of alarm. And colorectal cancer like any other cancer is a cause of alarm because it kills more than 50,000 people each year, making it second only to lung cancer in cancer deaths each year. Yet it is highly preventable, through a healthy lifestyle, and regular screening to prevent the minor irregularity in the body to develop into some malignant growth. Regular medical examinations are very important, once the candles of the fortieth birthday are blown out. The following five-page undergraduate paper is a brief study about the causes, symptoms, and patterns of occurrence of the colorectal cancer, with specific reference to its occurrence among women at age 40 and above.
Abstract This paper is an examination of the mechanisms of colon tumorigenesis involving the mutation cluster region of the APC gene. There is an explanation of colon carcinogenesis including an analysis of the Wnt signaling pathway, the roles of the APC gene's different domains, "Knudon's two- hit hypothesis and the "just right" level of signaling theory. The paper also includes a critical discussion about the scientific arguments and research evidence that exists to challenge current understanding of the underlying mechanisms of colon tumorigenesis. One illustration is included which depicts the varying domains of the APC gene.
From the Paper "Colorectal cancer is the third most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of death in the western world. Nearly 34,900 people are diagnosed with it in the U.K each year and about 16,000 of these die. About 15% of colorectal cancers are hereditary. Hereditary conditions are divided into two categories: the polyposis and the non polyposis types. Two hereditary conditions that have been identified are Familial Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (FAP) and Hereditary Non Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC). The adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene is known to be mutated in all cases of FAP but this condition only accounts for less than 1% of colorectal cancer cases. The condition HNPCC results when mutation occurs in the DNA mismatch repair genes MSH2 and MLH-1 leading to microsatellite instability and defective DNA repair. Non inherited mutations of the APC gene have been detected in over 85% of the remaining sporadic colorectal cancers. "
Abstract The paper reveals the alarming prevalence of obesity and related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, coloncancer and hypertension. The paper provides a literature review and discusses the significant implications in terms of the practice of master's prepared nurses.
Outline:
Epidemiology of the Health Problem
Review of Interventions from the Literature
Implications for Master's Prepared Nurses
From the Paper "Physical inactivity has become a significant issue, especially with the concern regarding the alarming prevalence of obesity and related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, colon cancer and hypertension in not only developed countries but also worldwide (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2000). All these diseases are linked with physical inactivity depending on the disease. For example, obesity, cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes mellitus are linked to physical inactivity in that calorie expenditure does not exceed caloric intake."
Abstract This extensive paper examines a number of issues related to African-American women and breast cancer, with an emphasis on detection, treatment and survival. The paper gives a brief overview of cancer, the breast and types of breast cancers. The author then describes the purpose of this study, which was to determine the impact of racial disparity on breast cancer survival. The study also addresses socio-economic factors, such as lack of health insurance, and low incomes. The study attempts to identify the reasons why African-American women have a higher mortality rate than all other ethnic groups. Finally, the author questions whether education, community out-reach programs, resources would influence the probability of reducing breast cancer mortality rates among African-American women.
Outline:
Introduction and Problem Background
The Breast
Development of the Breast
What is Cancer?
What is Breast Cancer?
Major Types of Breast Cancers Risk Factors for developing Breast Cancer Purpose of Study
Research Objectives
Limitation
Assumptions
Definition of Terms
Scope of Study
Review of Related Literature
Historical and General Background
Possible Barriers to The African-American Women having Mammograms
Existing Studies
Another Study of Racial Disparities in Breast Carcinoma Survival Rates
Methodology
Instrumentation
Statistical Approach
Relevant Results and Significant Studies
Summary of the Literature Reviewed
Findings
Association Between Socio-economic Status and Breast Cancer Survival
Relationship between racial difference in treatment, and breast cancer mortality among the African-American women and the Caucasian-women
Summary, Conclusions, Recommendations
Summary
Conclusions
Recommendations
References
From the Paper "The incidence of breast cancer among the African-American women is slightly lower than it is for the Caucasian women. In any given year, 95 out of 100,000 African-American women are diagnosed with breast cancer, compared to 112 out of every 100,000 the Caucasian women. However, the African-American women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer after age 50 (www.netwellness.org, 2004). Breast cancer is the cancer with the second highest death rate for both the African-American women and the Caucasian women. The overall lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer is 10% for the African-American women and 14% for the Caucasian women. However, about 31 out of every 100,000 the African-American women died from the disease each year compared to just 27 out of every 10,000 the Caucasian women from 1989 to 1992, but the rate also rose by 2% for the African-American women during the same period."
Abstract In this paper the author essentially talks about what skin cancer is, and how people can be exposed to getting it. He talks about the instances of skin cancer such as people who have a lighter skin tend to have an increased probability of being affected by the rays compared to dark skinned individuals. The paper discusses symptoms attached with skin cancer, like bumps around the head, neck or the shoulder area which might be the sign of a growing skin based tumor. In conclusion the author highlights that instances of skin cancer are growing daily and that more care when in the sun needs to be taken, to prevent the ultraviolet rays of the sun which are the main cause of skin cancer.
From the Paper "Within the field of medicine, there are a whole range of cancers and one of them is skin cancer. Skin cancer has been getting a lot of media attention in the past couple of years primarily due to the reason that it has been faced by many people, especially in the Western world. In fact, skin cancer, in a relatively short period of time has come to become an increasingly common condition. The most common reason due to the increase in the number of cases of skin cancer has been the increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation, against which there seems to be no strong way of prevention. Many people use a number of sun screens (a type of cream) to decrease the effects of this type of radiation from coming into their bodies but at times, this mechanism of protection simply might not be enough."
Abstract This paper provides an overview of the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment for women with ovarian cancer, the fourth leading cause of death among women. The paper discusses five aspects: (1) genetic research pertaining to ovarian cancer; (2) the development of new and accurate detection; (3) physical and psychological treatment for those afflicted; (4) the factor of multiple cancers, along with ovarian cancer; and (5) potential developments to slow ovarian cancer causes.
Abstract
Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "The very word "cancer" brings a chill to any woman who has undergone a test and is confirmed to be at risk, or actually found to have a tumor or tumors. As long as various aspects of research- from hereditary factors to genetics to new surgical and chemical procedures are found, there are also bound to be some who feel that their "discoveries" provide a quick fix, without proper substantiation."
Abstract The author of this paper relates that the author of this paper was prompted to reasearch the topic of breast cancer further after her friend had what is termed a 'breast cancer scare'. The paper then defines breast cancer as a gendered disease in which women are led to believe the fallacy that medicine is winning the fight against breast cancer. However being a female gendered disease being investigated by a male dominant medical field prompts the writer to argue that this may not be correct. The paper deals with the approach of cosmetic surgery with the intention of appearing more attractive and quotes examples and experiences of women. The paper states that it is essential for women to be positive and to fight the disease, not to be laid back and accept defeat, nor conceal the fact that breast cancer exists and realize that to hide it under beauty concepts may be fatal.
From the Paper "Recently, a close friend of mine had what is termed a "breast cancer scare". Following a routine mammogram, she was scheduled to have a suspicious lump removed from one of her breasts. During the wait for the surgery, and then the wait for the pathology report, we all reassured her as much as we could. We told her the things we have read and heard in the media, such as "Breast cancer's not such a big deal any more;" "Providing they catch it early, they can cure it;" "Almost no women die from breast cancer any more." And so on. And I, for one, believed it. It turned out that her lumps were not malignant, for which we are all deeply grateful. However, the incident caused me to wonder whether what we were saying was really true. Has the situation with regard to breast cancer really changed? Is it no longer the killer scourge that women used to fear so much? I did some research - and was shocked by the answers I found. As Batt (2002) puts it, "the overall mortality rate from carcinoma of the breast remains static" (p. 110). This of course begs the question: why are we being encouraged to believe that science is winning the fight against breast cancer, if this is not in fact true? As I will argue in this essay, the answer seems to have much to do with the fact that breast cancer is a gendered disease."
