Cancer effects
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10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that cancer and its treatments can significantly impact survivors' quality of life, cognitive function, and psychosocial outcomes, while radiation therapy can alter cancer cell biology and the tumor microenvironment, potentially enhancing immune responses and treatment effectiveness.
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Cancer Effects: A Comprehensive Overview
Biological Effects of Radiation on Cancer Cells
Radiation therapy has significantly advanced with the integration of computer and medical imaging technologies. Radiation impacts cancer cells by directly damaging the DNA double helix, which activates DNA damage sensors leading to apoptosis, necrosis, and aging. Additionally, radiation affects subcellular structures such as the cytoplasmic membrane, endoplasmic reticulum, ribosome, mitochondria, and lysosome, thereby regulating various biological activities of tumor cells. Recent studies indicate that radiation can alter the tumor cell phenotype, immunogenicity, and microenvironment, globally changing the biological behavior of cancer cells.
Cognitive Effects of Cancer and Cancer Treatments
Cancer treatments can lead to cognitive changes, affecting survivors' ability to return to work or school and their overall quality of life. These cognitive changes result from a complex interaction of treatment aspects, vulnerability factors, cancer biology, and aging. Advances in measurement approaches and statistical methods have improved the understanding of these cognitive effects, highlighting the need for innovative interventions to mitigate cognitive decline in cancer survivors.
Long-Term and Latent Side Effects of Cancer Treatments
Many cancer survivors experience long-term and latent side effects from their treatments, which can significantly impact their quality of life, morbidity, and mortality. These side effects are common across various cancer types and can persist for years after treatment, necessitating ongoing management and support for survivors .
Physical and Psychological Long-Term Effects
Cancer and its treatments can lead to a wide range of physical and psychological problems that persist long-term. These issues can emerge during or after treatment and may not appear until months or years later. Physical effects include chronic pain, fatigue, and organ dysfunction, while psychological effects encompass anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairments. Addressing these long-term effects is crucial for improving the quality of life for cancer survivors.
Impact of Radiation on the Immune Response
Radiation therapy not only targets tumor cells but also influences the immune response. The abscopal effect, where localized radiation leads to systemic responses, enhances the anti-tumor immune response by upregulating tumor antigens and antigen-presenting machinery. This process involves the trafficking of lymphocytes into the tumor microenvironment and the induction of positive immunomodulatory pathways, suggesting potential combinational strategies with immune-based therapies .
Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Symptom Management
Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, Tuina, Tai Chi, Qigong, and Traditional Chinese Medicine Five-Element Music Therapy (TCM-FEMT) have shown varying degrees of effectiveness in managing cancer symptoms and improving quality of life. Acupuncture and Tuina have demonstrated significant benefits in reducing pain, fatigue, and gastrointestinal discomfort, while Tai Chi and Qigong have shown limited effects on quality of life in breast cancer survivors. These therapies represent beneficial adjunctive treatments, although further research is needed to refine their application.
Psychological and Social Outcomes of Cancer
Cancer significantly impacts psychological and social outcomes, leading to negative emotional states such as anxiety and depression. However, some survivors experience positive emotional growth, known as post-traumatic growth. The psychosocial impact of cancer is influenced by physical symptoms, treatment, and various personal and environmental factors. Addressing these outcomes requires targeted psychological interventions and support from clinical psychologists, family members, and policymakers.
Stress and Cancer Progression
Stress has been shown to facilitate cancer progression by modulating various hallmarks of cancer. While preclinical studies indicate significant effects of stress on cancer, clinical evidence remains inconsistent. Targeting stress-sensitive phases of cancer progression and employing personalized pharmacological and psychosocial approaches may help mitigate the adverse effects of stress on cancer outcomes.
Conclusion
Cancer and its treatments have multifaceted effects on patients, ranging from biological changes in tumor cells to cognitive, physical, psychological, and social impacts. Understanding these effects is crucial for developing comprehensive care plans that address the diverse needs of cancer survivors, ultimately improving their quality of life and long-term outcomes.
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