I was very excited to review this book, both as a doctor, as someone who’s had breast cancer myself and as the author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows.
When I discovered that I was suffering from Breast Cancer, even as a doctor I felt bewildered and helpless. I learned the hard way – realizing always a little too late that I couldn’t necessarily rely on professionals, that I had to take control, that I needed to assert myself and that reluctantly I must become my own cancer expert. If only I’d known at the beginning what I know now.
Afterwards I was passionate to help others get ahead of the game at this crucial time and I receive regular messages from readers confirming that my book does just that.
So I’m thrilled that The Breast Cancer Book is another valuable and much-needed new resource.
Written by an oncologist, a breast surgeon and a lady who’s had breast cancer, the book has credentials. It covers all key topics for the reluctant entrant to Cancer Academy. The information is clear and succinct and you don’t need to read everything at once – you can dip in and out, focusing on what’s immediately important.
This book explains what cancer is, why we get it and your particular breast cancer type. It explains the medical investigations and their results and how your medical professionals will work with you. It discusses the various treatment options, their pros and cons – should you choose mastectomy for example (total breast removal with or without an implant or breast reconstruction) or simple removal of the lump (usually with radiotherapy)?
Importantly for US citizens, it explains the insurance system and what to do if you don’t have medical insurance. UK citizens reading this will appreciate the benefits of our NHS. It talks about if the cancer comes back or has already spread from the outset (Metastatic Breast Cancer). It advises on treatment side-effects and on alternative (complementary) therapy. It covers the emotional side of this life-changing diagnosis – support groups, impact on your family and relationships, how to help your children understand. It also summarises what we know about preventing cancer and reducing the risk of it returning.
Each chapter is just long enough, with summaries where helpful; there’s a useful medical glossary at the back and an index, so you to shoot straight to the answers you need. Occasional patients’ own stories provide added interest.
This book is written thoughtfully and empathetically and I would urge you to read it if you’ve received this frightening diagnosis. My book will help too, in a different way – choose which works best for you – there’s no right or wrong. Wishing you lots and lots of luck if you are going through breast cancer.
The Breast Cancer book is available from John Hopkins University Press and Amazon or Kindle.
By Dr K Thompson, award-winning author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q
http://faitobooks.co.uk
Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.