Emerging Role of Nutri-Epigenetics in Inflammation and Cancer

Nutrition is a factor involved in inflammation and a modulator of risk toward some cancers, and the complexity of linkages between dietary components and epigenetics mechanisms (e.g., DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin remodeling) may affect the inflammation phenotype and the development of cancer. An increasing number of studies support the role of diet in cancer development, prevention, and treatment. Although current knowledge regarding nutri-epigenetics is expanding, more work is needed, and nurse scientists have the potential to significantly contribute to the expansion of this knowledge.

Informed Consent: The Case of “-Omics” Literacy

The world of “-omics” is vastly changing the landscape of accelerated research and its translation to patient care. Understanding this complex science, particularly in the world of oncogenomics, can be daunting. Questions arise pertaining to how nurses can best educate patients who are forced to make difficult decisions without fully understanding to what they are consenting. This article follows a patient story that drives home the need to improve -omics literacy.

Informed Consent: A Clinical Trials Perspective

The primary goal of the thousands of registered trials in cancer research is to extend survival. With evaluation of efficacy, safety, and tolerability, healthcare providers must ensure that the principles described in the Belmont Report are upheld and that patients are truly informed when signing a consent form. In this article, two cases are highlighted, and reasons for participating in clinical trials are discussed. Challenges, such as healthcare literacy, patients' dedication to their healthcare providers, and choosing between multiple trials, are also explored.

Research Ethics Considerations Regarding the Cancer Moonshot Initiative

If the Precision Medicine Initiative was the launching pad, the Cancer Moonshot Initiative is the liftoff. A billion-dollar mission to "eliminate cancer as we know it," the Cancer Moonshot Initiative underscores the Precision Medicine Initiative's near-term focus in oncology research and translation. Spearheaded by Vice President Biden, the goal is to condense a decade of research into actionable results within five years.

Cancer genetics and genomics: essentials for oncology nurses

Cancer genetics and genomics are rapidly evolving, with new discoveries emerging in genetic mutations, variants, genomic sequencing, risk-reduction methods, and targeted therapies. To educate patients and families, state-of-the-art care requires nurses to understand terminology, scientific and technological advances, and pharmacogenomics. Clinical application of cancer genetics and genomics involves working in interdisciplinary teams to properly identify patient risk through assessing family history, facilitating genetic testing and counseling services, applying risk-reduction methods, and administering and monitoring targeted therapies.