Everyone's Guide to Cancer Therapy

Thoroughly revised and updated to encompass the latest in therapeutic cancer techniques and technology, this common-sense guide provides vital information on cancer diagnosis, treatment options, and supportive care to help patients make informed decisions. Original.

Although many sequels are rehashes of old material that may pale when compared with their predecessors, this is not. As with the first edition, published in 1991, the authors and 76 contributors-specialists in oncology-describe what cancer is, available standard and experimental treatments, and the various concerns of patients. They also provide questions that patients should ask their physicians regarding specific cancers. But this time, in addition to updated medical and psychological information, the authors discuss other issues, too. These include the role of the oncology nurse, use of gene therapy to treat cancer, new anti-cancer drugs, payment/insurance problems relating to cancer treatments, palliative and hospice care, and questionable and unproven cancer therapies. The authors do not gloss over the dilemmas many patients will face as they make choices. Instead, they emphasize that knowledge is crucial if a patient is to get the best possible care. A chapter by Vincent T. DeVita, Jr., M.D., former head of the National Cancer Institute, provides an overview of ongoing cancer research. In addition to a suggested readings, look for a glossary of medical terms, a listing of resources, and a description of anti-cancer drugs and their side-effects.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.