Chemoprevention of cancer: review of the literature.
OBJECTIVE
To explain the concept of cancer chemoprevention, describe chemoprevention trials, and discuss the agents currently under study to lower the incidence of oral premalignancy and head and neck, lung, breast, prostate, and colon cancers.


METHODS
Published journal articles, books, bulletins, monographs, protocols, and professional experience.


RESULTS
Chemoprevention is a promising approach to cancer control, and several key agents have been identified that may be able to block carcinogenesis. Phase III chemoprevention trials are being conducted to identify the role of agents (e.g., retinoids, tamoxifen, finasteride, aspirin) in cancer prevention.


CONCLUSIONS
Knowledge of the genetic and hormonal changes that occur during carcinogenesis continues to increase. Agents are being identified that block the development of cancer by arresting carcinogenesis. As more agents are identified and investigated, their importance in chemoprevention is increasing.


CONCLUSIONS
The goal of nursing care for participants in prevention trials is to promote compliance with the study protocol while supporting optimum quality of life. Through proactive education of participants, family members, and the public and skillful management of side effects, nurses can play an integral part in the success of prevention trials.
Swan
D K
DK
Cancer Prevention Center, Duluth Clinic, MN, USA.
Ford
B
B
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D018890:Chemoprevention; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011230:Precancerous Conditions / Q000188:drug therapy; D012176:Retinoids / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use
D016588:Anticarcinogenic Agents; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D012176:Retinoids