By Gerald P. Murphy, M.D., Lois B. Morris, and Dianne Lange


Reviewed by Sarah Jane Tew, B.S.

This is an excellent book and a must for anyone interested in learning more about cancer and the available treatments. It is also a great source for information on living and coping with cancer. The book is well organized into seven parts entitled:

Each section addresses concerns that individuals faced with a diagnosis of cancer now have. The diagrams and charts in each section help simplify complex ideas, and bold-faced subheadings make it easier to find the section you are looking for.

One of the most impressive parts of the book is the Encyclopedia of Common and Uncommon Cancers found in part VII of the book. The encyclopedia describes cancers affecting entire body systems as well as those affecting individual organs. Illustrations to help the reader understand basic anatomy. Each encyclopedia entry contains information organized by the following subheadings:

Unfortunately for people or families with hereditary forms of cancer, this book does not always address issues relevant to them. Instead the screening recommendations and treatment options discussed in this book are intended more for people at general population risk for cancer. Individuals with inherited cancer predispositions should discuss screening and treatment options with their personal physician or oncologist. Nevertheless, this book can be a helpful resource for better understanding cancer terminology and resources for coping with cancer.

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