Volume 194 - Issue 8
Breast cancer guide
Author: Elaine Arnold
Med J Aust 2011; 194 (8): 417. || doi: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2011.tb03035.x
Published online: 18 April 2011
Published online: 18 April 2011
Breast cancer: taking control.
John Boyages. Sydney: Boycare Publishing, 2010. (367 pp, $39.99). ISBN 978098063111.
RIGHT FROM when you first pick up this book, it captures your attention — starting with a cover that pictures a delightful old tree supporting a woman gazing into the distance. The author, Professor John Boyages, an oncologist with nearly 30 years’ experience treating the disease, uses a gardening analogy to introduce a very tough subject.
His aim is to enable patients and their families to understand the experience of having a diagnosis of breast cancer and to take control of its management. Key information is explained in a direct and easy manner that addresses the anxiety and shock experienced in this situation.
Boyages takes the reader through the different parts of “the garden” and the decisions that need to be made for gaining the best outcomes. He continues to use the gardening metaphor to describe medical pathology and techniques, thus simplifying information that could otherwise be overwhelming.
The book has a practical design. Its 20 “control points”, or important steps or decisions, are divided into three parts according to the phases of treatment, and I felt like I was referring to a trusty roadmap or GPS (global positioning system) that would help me to reach my destination safely.
Colour coding the key control points as “red for stop”, “amber for caution” and “green for proceed with care” makes it easier for readers to understand the treatment options and decision-making process.
The use of real-life stories enables the reader to relate to these experiences.
All the explanations are evidence-based and well referenced, to help patients make informed choices.
Although this book is primarily for women and men diagnosed with breast cancer, and their families and friends, it is also a valuable resource for health professionals.
It is well illustrated and includes over 75 web links, 20 flowcharts and 96 figures, which make it an easy read.
I would recommend it to anyone involved with breast cancer or interested in learning more about it.