Search

Purpose/objectives: To describe and review scientific and regulatory aspects of molecular genetic technology in the context of DNA testing for cancer predisposition., Data Sources: Published professional articles, texts, and proceedings; commercial testing companies; computerized data bases; and the World Wide Web., Data Synthesis: This article reviews the basic molecular biology (e.g., DNA, genes, chromosomes, DNA mutations) that is the foundation for indirect and direct methods of DNA testing for cancer predisposition. Key issues in DNA testing include who should be tested, provision of testing, and regulatory concerns. Benefits and problems of testing contribute to its current controversial status., Conclusions: Understanding the mechanisms of DNA testing for cancer requires knowledge of basic molecular biology. Family history of the cancer in question is a key indicator for predisposition testing. Accessing information regarding research-based testing is challenging. DNA testing for cancer predisposition is not a perfect test, as exemplified by issues related to test regulation and sensitivity., Implications for Nursing Practice: Basic knowledge of DNA testing for cancer predisposition will help nurses to (a) have a better understanding of the indications for and ramifications of testing, (b) provide information about testing to patients and the lay public, (c) counsel patients and families at high risk for inherited cancers more effectively, and (d) interpret DNA test results.

Purpose/objectives: To describe an expanded role for oncology nurses in genetic counseling for cancer., Data Sources: Published professional articles, computerized data bases, lay publications., Data Synthesis: A description of the availability of genetic counseling, of motivation for undergoing genetic counseling, and of the basic components of genetic counseling for cancer., Conclusions: The need for genetic counseling will increase as more families with inherited cancer are identified, more cancer genes are isolated, and genetic analysis becomes more available., Implications for Nursing Practice: Advances in genetic technology provide nurses with the opportunity for an expanded role in genetic counseling for cancer. Oncology nurses also can act as case finders of families with inherited cancers and conduct research in this area.

Purpose/objectives: To review molecular biology and gene technology as they relate to cancer prediction and screening., Data Sources: Published professional articles, texts, and proceedings; computerized data bases., Data Synthesis: Basic principles of inheritance and mutations; a discussion of proto-oncogenes, oncogenes, and anti-oncogenes; a summary of gene-mapping techniques; and a review of genes linked to familial, breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers., Conclusions: Most human cancers are influenced genetically but are not inherited. Discoveries about cancer genes play a major role in identifying individuals and families who are likely to develop cancer., Implications for Nursing Practice: Nurses need to heighten their awareness of this science and its ramifications, which ultimately will affect recommendations for early detection and screening.

Little is known about the impact of the cancer experience on long-term survivors of adult cancers. This exploratory study describes survivors' needs and identifies emic (in the subject's own words) categories and patterns among physiological, psychological, and socioeconomic changes, problems/concerns, and needs. A purposive sample of 17 adults more than two years post-cancer therapy was interviewed using the semi-structured Cancer Survivor Questionnaire (CSQ). Deductive content analysis was used to identify specific changes, problems/concerns, or needs associated with physiological, psychological, and socioeconomic categories. Inductive content analysis identified major emic themes and patterns. Findings indicate that the cancer experience permanently changes life patterns and suggest guidelines for nurses to use in helping the cancer survivor better adapt holistically to long-term survival.