Breast Cancer: The Complete Guide

Authors: Yashar Hirshaut, MD, FACP and Peter I. Pressman, MD FACS Publisher: Bantam Books Price: $14.95 (US) $19.95 (CAN) ISBN: 0-553-37203-3 OncoLink Rating:

Breast Cancer: The Complete Guide is an excellent reference for any patient diagnosed with breast cancer. Dr. Hirshaut, a medical oncologist, and Dr. Pressman, a breast surgeon, have created a complete, straightforward book for the breast cancer patient. They leave no stone unturned as they discuss the diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, and emotional issues surrounding breast cancer.

The book is divided into four separate sections. Section I specifically deals with the diagnosis of breast cancer. It helps the breast cancer patient find a doctor that is right for them. Section II discusses the various treatment options including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy. The authors also discuss the side effects of each treatment modality. Section III reviews follow-up procedures after the patient completes treatment. Section IV addresses the emotional impact of breast cancer. The authors utilize the experiences of breast cancer patients to personalize specific points. Overall, the book is well-written, complete, and easy to understand. Confusing medical terms are defined for the reader. Because the book was last updated in 1996, it does not contain discussions on some of the newer treatments available for some breast cancer patients, including Herceptin and sentinel lymph node biopsy.

Breast Cancer: The Complete Guide is highly recommended by OncoLink. Any patient diagnosed with breast cancer will benefit from reading this book.