The Effects of Alcohol Usage on Cancer Patients Receiving Radiation Treatments
Date
2014-05
Authors
Martin, Staci
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Abstract
The purpose of this research is to investigate the effects alcohol has on the radiotherapy patient’s treatment. Of particular interest are the effects on the cell, the psychosocial status of the cancer patient, effects on body systems and side effects, and patient outcomes. Research was done using oncology studies, journals, and textbooks that were peer reviewed and reliable. Research showed that alcohol can make tumors biologically aggressive and radioresistant, worsen patient outcomes and survival, worsen some patient’s side effects from radiotherapy, and cause or worsen clinical depression. These effects mean the cancer health care team must be involved with the patient who continues to consume alcohol against physician orders, displays signs of alcohol dependence, and may be at risk for problem drinking.
Description
Keywords
radiation, alcohol, cancer, P53, alcoholic, Honors College
Citation
Martin, S. (2014). The effects of alcohol usage on cancer patients receiving radiation treatments (Unpublished thesis). Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.