Developments in Cancer Care

Developments in Cancer Care is organized by The Royal Marsden School and will be held from Mar 03 - Apr 07, 2025.

Course Summary:
Explore the complexities of cancer management and treatment through our comprehensive module. Gain valuable knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to the field of oncology. We will delve into the latest advancements in diagnostics, treatment, and supportive care, gaining valuable insights into their real-world impact on individuals affected by cancer.

This module offers you the opportunity to analyse the interplay between contemporary cancer care developments and the broader societal context. Gain a clearer understanding of the current landscape of cancer care and its future trajectory.

The module covers key topics such as the biological basis of cancer, advances in diagnostic techniques, and the social and cultural impact of cancer. From cell biology to the sociology of illness and health, delve into a range of subjects to deepen your knowledge.

Upon successful completion of this module at Levels 6 and 7, you'll demonstrate proficiency in essential learning outcomes, including a deep understanding of cancer aetiology, critical analysis of assessment and treatment methods, and an exploration of the role of personalised medicine in cancer management.

Learning outcomes:
On successful completion of the module at Level 6 you should be able to demonstrate achievement of the following learning outcomes:

• Develop an in-depth understanding of the emerging aetiology of cancer and how this links to developments in care
• Explore developments in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer and the impact this has on the practice
• Critically explore the role of personalised medicine and its impact on the management of cancer
• Examine critically how developments in cancer care impact on outcomes
• Critically explore the social and cultural impact of cancer

On successful completion of the module at Level 7 you should be able to demonstrate achievement of the following learning outcomes:

• Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the emerging aetiology of cancer and how this links to developments in care
• Critically analyse and synthesise development in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer and the impact this has on practice
• Critically explore the complexities surrounding the use of personalised medicine and its impact on the management of cancer
• Critically analyse and synthesise the social and cultural impact of cancer
• Critically examine the influences shaping the future of cancer service

Key Topics:
The biological basis of cancer

• Cell biology
• Carcinogenesis
• Cancer immunology
• Cancer genetics

Cancer diagnosis and management/treatment 

• Advances in diagnostic techniques 
• Development in treatment modalities
• Developments in supportive therapies
• Developments in living with and beyond cancer 

Sociology of illness and health

• The social and cultural impact of cancer
• Cancer perspectives within society
• User engagement
• Politics and cancer care