Cancer Journal
Make a treatment choice.
- What are the three most common treatment options for your cancer? Just give a general explanation of the options at this point.
- Which treatment would you choose and why? [doing nothing although a choice, does not fit within the parameters of this assignment so please choose some treatment]
- For the treatment that you chose, describe the mechanism of action for the treatment to fight the cancer. Here you should be more specific about the option that you chose. You do not have to pick from the most common.
- What side effects may you encounter from the treatment?
- Which one are you most concerned about?
- Would you be open to trying any complementary and alternative medical treatments? Explain.
- Describe your emotional state.
- How will you cope with stress during this time?
How to solve
Cancer Journal – Make a treatment choice
Introduction:
In this assignment, we will explore various aspects of cancer treatment and its impact on patients’ lives. We will discuss the common treatment options available, the mechanisms of action for a chosen treatment, potential side effects, emotional states, coping mechanisms, and the use of complementary and alternative medical treatments. It is important to consider the individual needs and circumstances of each patient when making treatment choices.
Answers:
1. The three most common treatment options for cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
– Surgery involves removing the tumor and surrounding tissue to eliminate the cancer cells.
– Chemotherapy uses medications to destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
– Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors.
2. I would choose chemotherapy as the treatment option because it has the potential to reach cancer cells throughout the body. Additionally, chemotherapy can be used in combination with other treatments if necessary.
3. The selected chemotherapy treatment works by interfering with the ability of cancer cells to divide and multiply. It targets rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. By disrupting their growth and division, chemotherapy helps to kill or slow down the progression of cancer.
4. Some common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea and vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, decreased appetite, and increased risk of infection.
5. Among the potential side effects, I would be most concerned about the decreased appetite. Maintaining a proper nutrient intake is crucial during cancer treatment to support the body’s immune system and overall wellbeing.
6. Yes, I would be open to trying complementary and alternative medical treatments. However, I would consult with healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and effectiveness of such treatments. It is important to integrate evidence-based practices with complementary approaches.
7. During this time, my emotional state may be a mix of fear, uncertainty, and determination. Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging, and it is essential to seek appropriate support from healthcare providers, family, and friends.
8. To cope with stress during this time, I would employ various strategies such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, seeking counseling or support groups, practicing relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing, and engaging in activities that bring joy and distract from the challenges of cancer treatment.
Remember, these answers should be tailored to the individual case and may vary depending on the specific cancer type, stage, and the patient’s preferences and medical history.
