Medical training traditionally conditions for a ?victorious fight? ? that is all too rare in cancer. In fighting any disease, there are right and wrong ways to do things; only too often the lay and the health care providers have diametrally different views of what should be the optimal outcome. Oncology is a case in point. Unfortunately, with few exceptions, the patients eventually reach a phase where little can be done except vigorous palliation and spiritual support. For a physician, the former means admitting defeat; for the latter, few are prepared and able to respond to the needs of the terminal patient.
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