Books & Articles

Barraclough, S. (2011). I know someone with cancer. Chicago, IL: Heinemann Library.

• This book is a basic introduction to cancer, written for children ages 5-7.  Through color photographs and easy to read text boxes, it helps children understand what life with cancer is like and how they can “be a friend” to the patient.  This resource is a good way to start a conversation with children about cancer and how it will affect their own life and the lives of their loved ones.  Find it: Madison Public Library Catalog

Baselga, J., & Norton, L. (2002). Focus on breast cancer. Cancer cell, 1(4), 319-322. Retrieved from http://1.usa.gov/QfjW1b

• This article, and the other “Focus on” articles that appear periodically in Cancer cell, offers a medically detailed overview of a specific type of cancer that is readable for a general audience.  Sections include risk factors, treatment, detection, prevention, and recent advantages.  Some type of visual is typically included in the article.  The bibliography of this article is also a good starting point for further research.  Find it: PubMed 

Benkel, I., Wijk, H., & Molander, U. (2010). Using coping strategies is not denial: Helping loved ones adjust to living with a patient with a palliative diagnosis. Journal Of Palliative Medicine, 13(9), 1119-1123. doi:10.1089/jpm.2010.0087

• Coping strategies are often interpreted as denial but this study explores and validates the variety of ways that caretakers cope when a loved one is diagnosed with cancer. Each individual reacts differently and this study emphasizes that the desire for support is not a result of denial but can be a healthy coping strategy when facing life changes.  Find it: PyscINFO

Garza Gutiérrez, F. (2006). Cancer: Guia para medicos, pacientes y familiares. Mexico: Trillas.

• The author of this book is a psychiatrist who is an expert on depression and anxiety.  In this guide he offers advice about how to confront the various stages of fear, loneliness, and pain that can accompany cancer diagnosis and treatment.  This book is a good introductory Spanish-language resource.  Find it: Madison Public Library Catalog

Getting the support you need from those around you. (2011). Mayo Clinic Health Letter, 8. Retrieved from http://bit.ly/1hWEWj6

• The article suggests some of the sources of support for cancer patients that they can rely on during their treatment. It notes that family and friends, and cancer support groups are definitely helpful in reducing stress, and anxiety, highlighting research findings that show that socially involved cancer patients live longer. Also mentioned are religious or spiritual practices, and volunteer activities or work which are beneficial to cancer patients in coping with the challenges of treatment. This is a great resource for a cancer patient or the family of a cancer patient to find support systems.  Find it: Health Source – Consumer Edition

Gil, F., Costa, G., Hilker, I., & Benito, L. (2012). First anxiety, afterwards depression: Psychological distress in cancer patients at diagnosis and after medical treatment. Stress And Health: Journal Of The International Society For The Investigation Of Stress, 28(5), 362-367. doi:10.1002/smi.2445

• This study explores the progression of emotions that many cancer patients experience when diagnosed and after the completion of their treatment. It finds that anxiety is highest at diagnoses and declines as patients move through and complete treatment. Depression, on the other hand is greatest as treatment concludes. The study also examines what types of cancer diagnoses are most likely to be accompanied by depression and anxiety.  Find it: PsycINFO

Harvard Health Publications. (2002). Treating cancer pain. In What to do about Pain, 36-39. Retrieved from http://bit.ly/QqGzQj

• This excerpt from a Harvard special report explores the treatment options available to cancer patients in dealing with the pain caused by their conditions. The “Analgesic Ladder” diagram may be useful for understanding the incremental nature of pain relief prescriptions if patients’ conditions become more severe. The chapter also discusses possible side effects of pain relievers, and which adjuvant therapies are often recommended by doctors alongside the traditionally prescribed medications.  Find it: Consumer Health Complete

Ko, A., Rosenbaum, E. H., & Dollinger, M. (2008). Everyone's guide to cancer therapy: How cancer is diagnosed, treated, and managed day to day. Kansas City: Andrews McMeel Pub.

• This book offers comprehensive and up-to-date information about cancer in general as well as specific cancers. The guide walks readers through the diagnosis and treatment process, and also has information about current research, additional suggested resources, a glossary of medical terms, and drug and side effects information.  This resource provides information so that patients can be informed and advocate for high-quality care.  Find it: Madison Public Library Catalog

Marshall, C. A. (2010). Surviving cancer as a family and helping co-survivors thrive. Santa Barbara, CA: Praeger/ABC-CLIO.

• This book uses personal stories to offer helpful information for family and community members that are looking for support and perspective when someone close is diagnosed. It provides answers to practical questions regarding financial and emotional support for caregivers, spouses/partners, and children. In addition to discussing how children and adults cope with a cancer diagnosis, this book also offers focused information for African America, Native American, Asian American, Latino, and GLBT families. Chapters in this book offer stand alone information and the user can easily navigate to relevant information using the table of contents. Find it: PsycINFO

McKay, J., & Schacher, T. (2009). The chemotherapy survival guide: Everything you need to know to get through treatment (3rd ed.). Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications.

• This book was written by two oncology nurses and covers what can be expected throughout the various phases of chemotherapy treatment. It offers advice on the topics of side effects, nutrition, relaxation and stress management.  It is presented in an easy to understand tone.  Find it: Madison Public Library Catalog

National Cancer Institute. What You Need to Know About. (2006-2013). Retrieved from http://bit.ly/1ja1X72

• The “What You Need to Know About” series is published online by the National Cancer Institute.  It contains booklets of information on at least 30 types of cancer, including childhood, breast, lung, and brain, with easy-to-search chapters detailing factors such as symptoms, stages, and possible treatments. The downloadable materials are offered in both English and Spanish. Find the full series at: National Cancer Institute

Rapkin, M. (2007). Any day with hair is a good hair day: How to get through cancer and get on with your life (trust me, I've been there). New York, NY: Center Street.

• This book offers conversational and often humorous advice for those who have just been diagnosed with cancer.  The author, who is a cancer survivor herself, provides tips on what to expect with treatment and how to confront both physical and psychological issues.  This resource is a very accessible, yet comprehensive guide for the newly diagnosed as well as their supporters. Find It: Madison Public Library Catalog

Stein, L. (2008). Living with Cancer. (cover story). Scientific American Special Edition, 18(3), 6-13. Retrieved from http://bit.ly/1l9GuKw

• The article presents advice, resources and information for cancer patients on ways to manage their illness and get the professional and personal support they need. It is presented in an informal way and is accessible for anyone looking to learn more about how those diagnosed with cancer have dealt with the disease. Find it: Health Source – Consumer Edition 

Skalla, K. A., Lavoie Smith, E. M., Li, Z., & Gates, C. (2013). Multidimensional needs of caregivers for patients with cancer. Clinical Journal Of Oncology Nursing, 17(5), 500-506. doi:10.1188/13.CJON.17-05AP

• This article examines the diverse needs of caregivers of cancer survivors. The most common support activity caregivers perform is listening and caregivers often experience fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, weight gain, financial strains. The findings also show support from home nurse services may decrease such symptoms. Find it: PsycINFO

Whitehouse, M., Slevin, M., & Sheard, D. (1996). Complementary medicine in cancer care. In Cancer (pp.219-231). Retrieved from http://bit.ly/1ncZxHS

• This chapter outlines a few of the complementary medical practices offered to cancer patients, including reflexology, acupuncture, homeopathy, cranial osteopathy and herbalism. A helpful resource for patients looking to explore their treatment options.  Find it: Health Source – Consumer Edition