A staggering 5.8 million males and 5 million females worldwide are diagnosed with cancer each year. Approximately half of all cancer cases metastasize, contributing to the leading cause of cancer pain. This book emphasizes that every person's cancer is unique, and every person has the right to be well-informed and to be the decision-maker in planning treatment to offer the best possible quality of life. Each book in the "QuickFACTS" series is both comprehensive and a quick read, with highlighted cover tabs for quick reference of specific topics. It covers everything from risk factors to living well after cancer treatment. It provides critical questions to ask the healthcare team. It educates and empowers patients right from the start. It is completely updated with the latest patient treatment guidelines. It includes a cancer dictionary. The topics include: What is my type of cancer? How many people have it? What are the risk factors and causes? Can it be prevented? Can it be detected early? How is it diagnosed? How is it staged? How is it treated? What about complementary and alternative treatments? What should I ask my doctor? What happens after treatment? What's new in research and treatment? What information resources are available?

Author Biography

The American Cancer Society is a grassroots organization committed to fighting cancer through balanced programs of research, education, patient service, rehabilitation, and advocacy. Its goals emphasize prevention, early detection, and screening; comprehensive treatment information; answers to questions about insurance, money, and planning for the future; and strategies for coping with the physical symptoms and emotional effects of cancer. They are based in Atlanta.