When Cancer Hits Home: Cancer Treatment and Prevention Options for Breast, Colon, Lung, Prostate, and Other Common Types

FOREWORD CLARION REVIEW ***** FIVE STARS (out of Five): Dr. Maguire was inspired to write after the loss of his father and both of his in-laws to cancer within a short time frame. As an oncologist, he’d had abundant exposure to the workings of cancer, but his personal experience helped him to add a different viewpoint: that of a family member watching a loved one go through treatment and loss. These two perspectives, of knowledgeable physician and of family caretaker, combine nicely to give chapters a blend of research and warmth. In the book’s first part, Maguire focuses on cancer prevention, looking at the latest recommendations for reducing cancer risk. Starting with the relationship between cancer risk and nutrition, Maguire digs into dietary data, but admits that many questions remain, and he expresses frustration at the "snake oil salesmen" who prey upon people’s fears and hopes with so-called “cancer prevention” foods and products. Even with that caveat, his information is hugely useful and backed by numerous research studies. Exercise also plays a vital role in reducing cancer risk, he notes. Citing extensive research on the topic, particularly for breast cancer and lung cancer, Maguire adeptly makes his case for why everyone should spend less time on the couch and more time on the move. For those facing a cancer diagnosis themselves, or dealing with friends or family who are undergoing treatment, the book’s second section—on common cancer types—should prove invaluable. Maguire covers the twenty most common types, including breast cancer, leukemia, liver cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, and colon cancer. He starts each section with a patient’s story, created from the thousands of real patients he’s met and treated during his years as an oncologist. With a friendly tone that helps boost the understanding of complex material, Maguire presents important terminology without bogging down his explanations with medical jargon. Key concepts for each cancer type are included, as well as warning signs and symptoms, staging process and treatment options. Maguire’s talents as a writer are likely the same as his skills as a physician: he articulates risks, research, and treatment in a straightforward, informed manner, but also includes thoughtful, personal stories that connect him to patients and their experience. Whether someone is looking for cancer prevention tips or trying to learn more about a specific cancer, this guide should prove to be a stellar resource. - Elizabeth Millard, Foreword Reviews REVIEWS by CANCER SURVIVORS & DOCTORS: "An excellent resource for cancer patients, their families, and medical professionals. The section on breast cancer gives an up-to-date and well-written analysis of the highly complex process of diagnosis and treatment of this disease in a way that is useful and easy to understand." - Pamela Garmon, Physicist & Breast Cancer Survivor "Everything that Dr. Maguire has written in the chapters on prostate cancer and PSA examinations rings true to me." - Arnold Palmer, Professional Golfer & Prostate Cancer Survivor "I couldn't help but relate my own story to this well written description of the signs and symptoms. I am sure this book will be of great value to those who have battled or know of someone battling this disease." - Sue Pasquarell, Administrator & Uterine Cancer Survivor "When Cancer Hits Home provides critical information to patients and their loved ones about treatment options for liver and pancreatic cancer in a manner that's down to earth and easy to understand." - John Martinie MD, Hepatobiliary Surgeon, Carolinas Medical Center "Outstanding explanations and summary for patients, families, and many medical professionals involved with cancer treatment...Dr. Maguire has provided a unique, honest, and compassionate way to introduce these discussions." - Charles Dye MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine