Cancer: Waging War or Making Peace?

In today’s health care environment, we hear a lot about the war on cancer and fighting the battle. With so much emphasis on fighting, are those with the disease ever encouraged to perhaps spend the time and energy they have left on doing the things they love, with the people they love? Some doctors believe that if the patient is not fighting, they are giving up. It is important, however, for physicians to not lose sight of patient’s wishes and honor whatever way they choose to approach their disease.

In a Journal of the American Medical Association commentary by Thomas E. Edes, MD, he agrees that the "war against cancer" metaphor is especially appropriate for helping to raise funds for cancer research. But, “…carrying this metaphor to each affected individual can be counterproductive, inappropriate, even destructive.” The author goes on to talk about a friend of his who decided against chemotherapy when her cancer returned with a vengeance. After weighing her options, she announced that she was willing to settle for more “good days” than simply “more days.” Her oncologist told her that if she wanted to die, why didn't she just commit suicide?. But she decided to spend what was left of her time her way, and for another year, Edes’ friend lived, really lived. She traveled, visited family and friends and used her energy on things she loved. Choosing peace instead of war didn’t make her any less courageous or less deserving of dignity, respect or support. Many would say, "quite the opposite."

Gregory C. Gifford, MD JD Chief Medical Officer
Diplomate ABEM
Board Certified in Hospice and Palliative Medicine