by Jennifer Weiner, NY Times Sunday Review, May 13, 2018
This is a helpful article for anyone diagnosed with “early cancer” (breast, prostate, non-melanoma skin cancer, melanoma and many other malignancies). The message is that physicians’ words can trigger fear in the patient that is out of proportion to the seriousness of the tumor. Often, the cancer may be treated more aggressively than is necessary.
Dr. Steven Katz, a University of Michigan researcher told the author: “The way we frame illness and the treatment options is the most important factor driving what happens next. And the cancer label is particularly profound.”
He also recommended getting a second opinion as, “There is time for just about any decision you make.” This, too, can be difficult and confusing. There are some decision aids available, but not necessarily enough.