Cancer

(Hardback)

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Description

Once a certain death sentence and often a cause for shame, cancer is now a treatable disease. Cancer provides a broad introduction to this complex family of diseases, tracing the fascinating history of scientific discoveries that led to today's sophisticated treatments. This extraordinary new volume, coauthored by three leaders in cancer research and surgery at Harvard Medical School, uses scientifically accurate yet accessible language to give readers a firm grounding in such essential concepts as angiogenesis and the genetics of cancer. In addition to information about types of cancer, diagnosis, and treatment, Cancer places special emphasis on new frontiers in research, psychological aspects of a cancer diagnosis, and quality-of-life issues for those living with disease. Useful features include a comprehensive glossary, a timeline of milestones in cancer research, and an appendix for students on how to pursue a career in science or medicine.

Reviews

Using examples and interesting stories, three Harvard Medical School researchers and surgeons examine the history of cancer, the nature and treatment of the disease, and the prospects for future research. Accessibly written, the book provides a firm grounding in the causes of cancer and the principles of genetics, and explains the progression of the disease. Cancer diagnosis and treatment (including the limits of treatment) are thoroughly discussed, along with the dangers of unproven and alternative treatments. The authors also highlight the growing field of psychooncology and the importance of family and community support in cancer treatment. This is an excellent, accessible introduction to the subject that should be of broad interest. * SciTech Book News *
This is a nice resource for teens interested in cancer or science and medicine. * ARBAonline *
This slender volume offers a wealth of accessible information for lay readers seeking to understand cancer, its triggers, how it sustains itself, and how it can be fought. * Library Journal *

Author Bio

Susan Pories is a breast cancer surgeon, surgical educator, and investigator. Marsha Moses is professor at Harvard Medical School and the interim director of the Vascular Biology Program at Children's Hospital Boston. Margaret Lotz is a clinical research coordinator, data manager and analyst for clinical cancer trials in cancer biomarkers.