The biology of cancer: what do oncology nurses really need to know.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the impact of genetics and genomics on the biology of cancer and the implications for patient care.


METHODS
Pubmed; CINAHL.


CONCLUSIONS
Cancer research in genetics/genomics has identified new mechanisms influencing personalized risk assessment/management, early detection, cancer treatment, and long-term screening/surveillance.


CONCLUSIONS
Understanding the basics of genetics/genomics on the biology of cancer will facilitate patient education and care delivery, including the administration and monitoring of genetically targeted therapies whose toxicities may in part be mediated by the molecular pathways targeted by the specific agent.
School of Nursing, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA. jaegger@clemson.edu
Julie
J
Eggert
D002983:Clinical Competence; D004273:DNA, Neoplasm / Q000032:analysis; D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000453:epidemiology; D005820:Genetic Testing; D023281:Genomics / Q000193:education; D006801:Humans; D008967:Molecular Biology / Q000193:education; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics* / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000193:education*
D004273:DNA, Neoplasm