Cancer is extremely common and in many situations a truly frightening disease, but for too long the psychological aspects and effects have been ignored. An Introduction to Psycho-Oncology deals in a clear and simple manner with the reactions of cancer patients to their illness, and the ways in which they can be helped. In the context of a multidisciplinary approach that takes account of medical treatments as well as psychological interventions, Guex offers suggestions for better ways of communicating so as to provide a therapeutic partnership between carer and client.

`... a very helpful book ... needs to be read widely, especially by all those involved in caring for cancer patients, and indeed by the patients themselves.' - The Lancet

`... a remarkable book, designed to inform and update health professionals on the complex and important relationships between the mind and body in oncology, the study of cancer.' - Medical Research Council News

`the chapters are laid out well and are easy to read and the book is extremely well referenced and encourages further reading. A list of addresses of useful organisations is included ... Provides a holistic review of psycho-oncology ... will prove very useful for those coming into contact with cancer patients.' - Nursing Times

`One can understand Heather Goodare's sense of urgency and mission to bring Dr Guex's humane and intelligent message to the British public.' - Ian Robertson, The Times

`an excellent and thought provoking book'

`... a remarkable book, designed to inform and update health professionals on the complex and important relationships between the mind and body in oncology, the study of cancer.' - Medical Research Council News

`a useful exploration of relationships between mind and body in people with cancer, and the range of possible treatments., - Medical Sociology News

Patrice Guex is Associate Professor in the Department of Adult Psychology at the University of Lausanne, Switzerland, and Medical Director of the Division of Psycho-Social Medicine at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne. Heather Goodare experienced cancer in 1986 and, finding there was little psychological support available for cancer patients, decided to train as a counsellor. She now practises privately, and is active in voluntary work with cancer self-help organizations.