Oncological Rehabilitation
Oncological rehabilitation includes prevention of cancer and minimizing risk factors, reducing complaints during the disease process, increasing the level of independence and increasing the quality of life, and physiological and psychological support for the cancer patient and his family in the terminal period.
Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled division of abnormal cells and the ability of these cells to attack other tissues. Cancerous cells are transported to other parts of the body by the blood and lymphatic system. Cancer is a genetic disease caused by a defect in the genes that encode molecules responsible for cell communication processes. If a gene defect causes cancer in one organ, it can also cause cancer in other organs, regardless of the cellular and anatomical condition. Cancerous cells that do not take into account the regulatory processes in the body begin to grow uncontrollably.
Cancer Rehabilitation
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It is defined as helping the person diagnosed with cancer to gain maximum physical, social, psychological and occupational functions within the limits determined by the disease and treatments.
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Rehabilitation practices have a place in every stage of diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients.
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The first study to document the need for cancer rehabilitation was published by Lehman et al.
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In this study, 805 patients of different types were examined and 438 patients were found to need rehabilitation; This requirement was determined at a rate of 70% in patients with breast, lung, and head and neck tumors.
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Many reasons such as inadequate definition of functional problems and rehabilitation needs, not directing patients to rehabilitation clinics, inadequacy of rehabilitation services in this area, comorbid diseases, advanced age, and financial problems prevent cancer patients from accessing rehabilitation.
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In palliative rehabilitation, the disease is at an advanced stage.
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In this period, the main goals are to increase mobility and independence as much as possible and to support the patient with appropriate orthoses and devices.
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Providing emotional support and educating the family about care is also necessary.
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The positive effects of exercise activities on physical function, muscle strength, emotional well-being and quality of life should not be forgotten.
