Preventing Surgery-induced Cancer Metastasis

The cornerstone of treatment for the great majority of cancers is the surgical removal of the primary tumor. The rationale for this approach is straightforward: if you can get rid of the cancer by simply removing it from the body, then a cure can likely be achieved. Unfortunately, this approach does not take into account that after surgery the cancer will frequently metastasize (spread to different organs). Quite often the metastatic recurrence is far more serious than the original tumor. In fact, for many cancers it is the metastatic recurrence—and not the primary tumor—that ultimately proves to be fatal.

Truth Squad—Medical Reporting On Mammograms

Truth Squad—Medical Reporting On Mammograms

News reports on the mammography controversy reached a pitch of high hysteria last week, the baseline syncopated with the language of hate and fear. No question, “breast cancer” is a charged phrase. In an instant, the two words conflate the beginning of life, when a baby feeds at its mother’s breast, and the end that so many Americans fear, “the Big C.” Sex and death packed into one phrase—little wonder that the words can unleash such strong emotions.

Prevention is All about the Doctor-Patient Relationship!

It’s all about prevention, but how can you even begin to address prevention when the real implementers of prevention aren’t even part of the discussion? I’m referring to the doctor-patient relationship which ultimately makes or breaks the entire system. Remember Dr. Welby? Remember when doctors were beloved and patients were respected and cared for? Those were the days when the cost of healthcare was not prohibitive. In those days genomics and MRIs were scarce but good will and health were abundant. What changed?

Remapping the Medical Metaphor

I often feel startled by life as many physicians do; startled by the vast intricacies of life, and humbled by the almost unfathomable complexities. But these days, I am concerned that for many in my field the wonder is waning, drowning.