Introduction

摘要

COGNITIVE sequelae from cancer and cancer-related treatment have a significant impact on cancer survivors' quality of life. Recognition of changes in cognition related to central nervous system tumors and related treatment, combined modality treatment of childhood malignancies, and the use of chemotherapy in the general medical oncology population has been noted in the literature since the early 1980s. More recently, research results have indicated the presence of cognitive changes before therapy for non-central nervous system malignancies, lending support to the impact of tumor-related causal mechanisms, in addition to the effects of anesthesia, radiation, and chemotherapy. This phenomenon is complicated by the additional impact on cognition caused by advancing age, hormonal changes, anemia, fatigue, and pain, as well as related psychosocial factors such as anxiety and depression. The purpose of this issue of Seminars in Oncology Nursing is to provide an overview of the state of the knowledge for cognitive changes associated with cancer and cancer treatment and to highlight the importance of assessment, education, and validation of the experience for cancer survivors.