Cancer - A Brief Introduction

Cancer - A Brief Introduction

• Cancer is an umbrella term for a group of diseases where normal cells mutate, divide, and spread to other parts of the body.
• A collection of cancer cells is called a tumor or neoplasm.
• Cancer cells can break away from the tumor and travel via the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other areas of the body, a process called metastasis.
• Neoplasms can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
• Benign neoplasms are usually slow-growing and don't spread.
• Malignant neoplasms are often fast-growing and invade other areas.

Learning Objectives

• Define "cancer" in patient-appropriate language.
• Describe common cancer types in Australia.
• Outline common cancer risk factors.
• Describe physiotherapy's role in treating cancer patients.

Types of Malignant Neoplasms (Cancers)

Carcinomas

• Originate from epithelial tissue.
• Account for 80-90% of all cancers.
• Subtypes: Adenocarcinoma (develops in organs/glands), Squamous cell carcinoma (develops in squamous epithelium).
• Affect organs capable of secretion (breast, lungs, colon, prostate, bladder).

Sarcomas

• Originate from connective tissue (bones, tendons, cartilage, muscle, fat).
• More common in young people.
• Often present as a painful mass on the bone.
• Subtypes include: osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, mesothelioma, fibrosarcoma, angiosarcoma, liposarcoma, glioma, myxosarcoma, and mixed mesodermal tumors

Myeloma

• Malignant neoplasm originating in plasma cells of bone marrow.

Lymphoma

• Develops in lymphatic glands or nodes.
• Can also develop in the stomach, breast, or brain.

Leukemia

• "Liquid cancers" or "blood cancers."
• Originate in bone marrow.
• Associated with overproduction of immature white blood cells, leading to a higher risk of infections.

Cancer in Australia

• Cancer is a leading cause of death in Australia.
• Approximately 50% of Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by age 85.
• Mortality rates have decreased by 25% since 1981 due to improvements in treatment.
• Common causes of cancer-related deaths: lung, prostate (men), breast (women), and colorectal (bowel) cancer.

Common Types of Cancer (by Gender)

• (Note: This section presents a summary of common cancers, not a definitive list.)*

Causes and Risk Factors for Cancer

• Not all causes are known.
• Known risk factors include carcinogens like tobacco, ultraviolet radiation, and asbestos.
• Some cancers are linked to genetics, alcohol (4.5%), infectious agents, and dietary factors.
• Some cases are idiopathic (unknown cause).

Workplace Cancer

• Occupational carcinogens cause over 5000 new cancer cases per year in Australia.
• Exposure occurs in various jobs (farmers, drivers, miners, transport workers, painters, etc.).
• Shift work is associated with an elevated cancer risk.

Common Cancer Symptoms

• Symptoms vary depending on the cancer type and location.
• Examples: unexplained weight loss, unusual lumps/swelling, breast changes, abnormal sweating (especially at night), sores that won't heal, unexplained/unusual bleeding.

Common Side Effects of Cancer Treatments

• Cancer treatments (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery) can cause unpleasant side effects.
• Examples: fatigue, nausea, cognitive impairment, oral effects (infections, bleeding gums, ulcers, tooth decay).

Cancer Prevention

• Get regular exercise (30-60 minutes daily).
• Avoid smoking.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Avoid excess weight gain.
• Eat a healthy diet (more vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains; less salt, saturated/red meat).
• Be sun smart.
• Participate in early detection and screening programs (when eligible).

Cancer and Physiotherapy

• Physiotherapy interventions are multifactorial, addressing various needs.
• Interventions may include: personal alarms, assistive technologies, gait aids, and exercise.
• Approaches are tailored to the individual's cancer type and impact.
• Home safety and environmental modifications are also considered.
• Work with patients to achieve their specific goals.

This quiz provides an overview of cancer, including its definition, types of malignant neoplasms, and the role of physiotherapy in treatment. Learn about how cancer cells behave, risk factors, and common cancer types found in Australia. Test your understanding of these crucial aspects of cancer care.