NEOPLASTIC DISEASES (CANCER)

Question 1

simple explanation of cancer pathophysiology

Answer 1

• disorder of cell growth and regulation
• unregulated cell growth, tissue invasion, and metastasis (cells have the ability to spread to other tissues)

Question 2

what are some abnormal characteristics of cancer cells?

Answer 2

• failure to differentiate (not producing new cells)
• loss of apoptosis (programmed cell death)
• genetic instability leading to mutations
• increased angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels in order to maintain oxygen requirements for cancer cells)
• evasion of the immune system (run away from immune system)

Question 3

what are the 4 main diagnosed cancers:

Answer 3

breast, prostate, colorectal, lung

Question 4

what is the etiology of cancer (two general ideas)

Answer 4

genetics and epigenetics (lifestyle and environment)

Question 5

what is chemotherapy

Answer 5

chemical agents used to impair ability for both malignant and normal cells to replicate

Question 6

what is radiation

Answer 6

emission of energy or light waves to kill cancer by disrupting the chemical bonds found in DNA that support replication and synthesis of new DNA - very targeted

Question 7

what are the three impacts of cancer that have nutritional implications

Answer 7

1. presence of tumour
2. host response
3. anti-cancer treatment

Question 8

how does the presence of a tumour impact nutrition in an individual

Answer 8

• tumor produces lipid mobilizing factor (LMF) which induces lipolysis (increased gluconeogenesis - hyperglycemia)
• tumor produces proteolysis inducing factor (PIF) which induces proteolysis - increased gluconeogenesis (aa)

Question 9

what are the main side effects of cancer therapies

Answer 9

anorexia, fatigue, N/V, diarrhea, fever, rashes, infections

Question 10

what is neutropenia and what treatment does this occur mostly in

Answer 10

presence of abnormally few neutrophils in the blood, leading to increased susceptibility to infection

Question 11

approximate ratio method and range for CHO and PRO recommendations

Answer 11

CHO: 25-30g/kg (sedentary)
PRO: 1.5g/kg (1.0-1.2g/kg kidney disease)

Question 12

some interventions for individuals getting chemotherapy

Answer 12

• timing of meals (light meals before treatment)
• nutrient density
• HCHP oral supplements
• adjustment of taste, temperature, texture, and smell
• individualized recommendations

Question 13

interventions for individuals with cachexia

Answer 13

• omega 3 fatty acids (anti-inflammatory properties, improvement in weight)
• high protein and high calorie foods
• eat often
• eat what you like eating
• snacks
• eat with others