Discusses some geographical and racial cancer patterns, the role of genetics in cancer, and methods for testing carcinogens. (MLH)

Surveys the literature on the psychosocial adjustment of cancer survivors, identifying four areas that may challenge cancer survivors: coping with the late physical effects of treatment; living with the uncertainty of long-term survival; resolving problems related to intimacy, marriage, and reproduction; and employment discrimination. Implications…

Recent advances in the development of radionuclide labeled monoclonal antibodies as radiopharmaceuticals should result in commercially available products in the near future. This presentation describes mechanisms by which radiation can destroy cells, factors influencing the potential for successful treatment, concepts to understanding the use of…

As young people survive childhood cancer at ever-increasing rates, the late effects of treatment that affect growth, development, and cognitive functioning must be considered. This paper describes medical treatment for childhood cancer, long-term survival and general effects of treatment, cognitive late effects of treatment, and educational…

Discusses working with groups of cancer patients and the psychological problems of these persons. Discusses these issues for group work in cancer treatment: support; sharing feelings; building coping skills; information and education; and existential considerations. Discusses nature of participation, leadership, and membership considerations in…

Evidence is presented that in certain groups under threat there is a strong preference to evaluate the self against less fortunate others (downward evaluation) but also a desire for information about and contact with more fortunate others (upward contacts). Implications of these patterns in cancer patients are discussed. (SLD)

Compared the effect of a 5-week group counseling treatment to an information-only control condition for 37 women with early-stage gynecologic cancer. Women completed various measures related to mood, adjustment, and coping one week before treatment, at the last session, and at one month follow up. Differences are reported. (JBJ)

Overall cancer incidence among southwestern American Indians is less than half that of U.S. whites; Alaska Native and white rates are similar. However, both native groups have elevated rates for specific cancers (stomach, liver, and gallbladder), and Indians have low five-year survival rates. Data tables outline incidence, mortality, and survival…

Attempts to clear up misunderstandings about radon and outlines information teachers can convey to their students. Includes a brief history of radon, health threats posed by radon, methods to measure radon quantities, homeowner risks and preventative actions, and a glossary of radon terms. (MDH)

This study investigated the educational process used in tumor boards (cancer case conferences) and whether the process varied based on type of board, frequency of meetings, and presence or absence of residency training programs in the hospital. These data were collected through observation of 715 board sessions of 37 hospitals and 43 tumor boards.…

Compared quality of life of terminal cancer patients (n=182) in two palliative care units with that of those in general hospital. Patients in specialized palliative care units were found to differ from those dying in hospital, showing less indirectly expressed anger but more positive feelings. They also reported more anxiety about death but less…

Presents interview with Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of international hospice care movement. Saunders describes her background and experiences that led her to form the hospice movement and discusses the need for pain control for terminally ill patients. Saunders also notes her opposition to euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide. (NB)

Provides an overview of human exposure to ultraviolet radiation and associated health effects as well as risk estimates for acute and chronic conditions resulting from such exposure. Demonstrates substantial reductions in health risk that can be achieved through preventive actions. Also includes a risk assessment model for skin cancer. Contains 36…

Explored factors influencing patient satisfaction with and utilization of information booklets. Patients (N=36) rated five booklets, and strongly preferred one with a grade-eight reading level. The relationship of preference and recall was investigated. No difference between those who seek or avoid information was found. Additional findings are…

Most children and parents use strategies that protect them from psychopathology in coping with cancer. Studies involving children with cancer, their parents, their perceptions, emotions, and coping strategies are reviewed. A psychosocial support model is proposed which may be helpful when support is needed with problems of adjustment. (Author/EMK)