Clinical applications of genetics in sporadic cancers

Abstract

Objectives: To describe how genetic information shapes our understanding of carcinogenesis; how genetic information influences recommendations for cancer screening, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment; and how genetic information may affect the prognosis of patients with cancer and the monitoring of anticancer treatment.

Data sources: Medical and nursing literature, textbooks, Internet websites.

Conclusion: The Human Genome Project has taken oncology one step further toward accurate diagnosis and treatment of many forms of cancer. There are many genetic traits that can be associated with increased cancer risk, diagnosis, and selection of treatments.

Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nursing practice is directly affected by the developments of medical genetics. The information gained can be used by nurses at all stages of the cancer continuum when administering these new therapies.