~A Pathfinder~

Introduction and Scope Pancreatic cancer results in fewer than 2% of newly diagnosed cases of cancer per year, however, it makes up 5% of the year's fatality rate. Once the symptoms have announced themselves, it is usually too late to expect complete recovery, if treatment is prescribed, at all. The purpose of this pathfinder is to provide a starting point for individuals interested in learning more about this deadly disease. The sources will be most appropriate for those interested in the history and description of the disease, various treatments, coping mechanisms, and various alternative methods of therapy. More importantly, this pathfinder is for those directly affected by pancreatic cancer to use in the desperate search for answers. The resources mentioned by the pathfinder will focus on more recent information, most within the last few years, as the field of cancer research is constantly in flux.

Keywords and Subject Headings (according to the Library of Congress) The following subject headings and/or keywords may be used when searching for books and other materials related to pancreatic cancer. They are most useful for searching online catalogs, but they can also be used in searching indexes and abstracts as well as the World Wide Web.

When beginning the search for information on pancreatic cancer, several "keyword" options are available. Derivatives of the word pancreas (i.e., pancreatic) should be used in conjunction with the term cancer, or any of its "used for" terms (i.e., cancers, carcinoma, etc.). Once the search is begun, several other terms should become available by looking at related subjects, and alternative keywords. In addition, "searching" diseases of the pancreas may yield more results along similar avenues.

Dictionaries and Encyclopedias The following sources provide useful background information for the study of pancreatic cancer. They also provide bibliographies and reading lists that allow users to begin further research. These sources should primarily be used as reference works or as an introduction to the research topic.

• Altman, Roberta. The Cancer Dictionary, 2nd Revised Edition. New York: Facts on File, 2000. ISBN: 0816039534.
  
            "Designed for general readers, this dictionary attempts to provide definitions for every term connected with cancer. Includes many cross-references, and capitalized terms within a definition have their own entry. Brief bibliography, appendixes (support organizations, comprehensive cancer centers, clinical trials, cooperative groups, and drugs), and subject index." -From Guide to Reference Books, 1996 (specific to 1992 edition of The Cancer Dictionary)

• Bartone, John C. Cancer Encyclopedia- Collections of Anti-Cancer and Anti-Carcinogenic Agents, Chemicals, Drugs & Substances: Index of New Information and Guide-Book for Consumers, Reference and Research, Vol 19. Annandale, VA: A B B E Publishers Association of Washington, D.C, 2002. ISBN: 0788326880.

• Bertino, Joseph R., ed., Dr. Stuart A Aaronson, and Borst Piet. Encyclopedia of Cancer. San Diego, CA: Academic Press, 1996. ISBN: 012093230X.
            "This three-volume reference work consists of 163 articles on various aspects of cancer, including its epidemiology, its treatment, and its molecular and genetic processes." -- from Book News, Inc. "The Editor and Editorial Board have successfully compiled a comprehensive source of information that is beneficial to undergraduates, graduate students, and seasoned professionals, as well as to the lay person interested in the causes and cures of cancer that may be affecting a loved one. The Encyclopedia is easy to read, easy to use, and meticulously covers all of the "hot" topics in cancer research." -from Amazon.com (book description)

• Britannica Editors. "Pancreatic Cancer." Encyclopaedia Britannica 2002. Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc., 2001. ISBN: 0852297874.
            "The New 2002 edition of Encyclopædia Britannica combines over 233 years of heritage with up-to-date information to produce the world's most indispensible reference set. Including information on historical topics as well as contemporary world culture, the 2002 Encyclopædia Britannica offers thorough treatment of virtually every subject imaginable. To access quick facts, enjoy in-depth articles, or delve into the full range of human knowledge, turn to the illuminating pages of Encyclopædia Britannica. With articles covering the historic and political, the literary and cultural, and the scientific and technological, Encyclopædia Britannica covers the scope of mankind`s knowledge." -from Amazon.com (book description)

• Dorland, W A Newman, ed. Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary (Standard Version). Saint Louis, MO: Harcourt Health Sciences Group, 2000. ISBN: 0721662544.
            "The aim of the author of this work has been to produce, in a volume of convenient size, an up-to-date Medical Dictionary, sufficiently full for the various requirements of all.... The book does not claim to be an encyclopedia; it is a dictionary, a concise and convenient word-book, aiming to furnish full definitions of the terms of medicine and kindred branches.... The author has sought a middle course between the large, unwieldy lexicon and the abridged students' dictionary, avoiding the disadvantages of each." -from Amazon.com (from the publisher)

• MedLine Plus Health Information Medical Encyclopedia: Pancreatic Carcinoma. Available online at: [www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000236.htm]

• The Physicians' Desk Reference, eds. The Physicians' Desk Reference Family Guide Encyclopedia of Medical Care. New York, NY: Ballantine Books, 1999. ISBN: 0345420098.
            "In a world of managed care and rushed appointments, patients often need help obtaining peace of mind regarding their health concerns. Now, from the most trusted name in medical publishing--the source physicians and pharmacists turn to--THE PDR FAMILY GUIDE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF MEDICAL CARE gives you guidance and information at your fingertips. With a comprehensive, alphabetical listing of common and unusual ailments that afflict both children and adults--plus a unique index that matches your signs and symptoms to possible conditions--this is a reassuring home health reference you'll turn to again and again." -from Amazon.com (book description)

• Thackery, Ellen, ed. The Gale Encyclopedia of Cancer. Farmington Hills, MI: Gale Group, 2002. ISBN: 0787656097.
            "This encyclopedia, compiled by physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and medical writers, provides detailed information about the various kinds of cancer; diagnostic procedures; drugs; treatments; and scientific concepts. Because this encyclopedia focuses on cancer, it provides more detailed information about specific cancers and their treatments, including alternative and complementary therapies. Consumer health collections and large public libraries with sufficient funds and the need for a comprehensive lay cancer source will want to consider the Gale set." -from Booklist, via Amazon.com

Other Reference Books The following resources are reference books that can be referred to in the search for more information regarding specific ailments. The sources listed are merely suggestions, but may contain useful information in more thoroughly detailing pancreatic cancer, it's affects, and treatment.

• Beers, Mark, Robert Berkow, and Mark Burs, eds. Merck Manual Diagnosis & Therapy. Tremecula, CA: Merck & Co., 1999. ISBN: 0911910107.
            "This is serious stuff. The most widely used medical text in the world and the hypochondriac's bible, the Merck has the lowdown on the vast expanse of human diseases, disorders and injuries, as well as their symptoms and recommended therapy. It's intended for physicians and medical students, but though the type is tiny and the language technical, the Merck's a valuable volume for anyone with more than a passing interest in bodily ills." -from Amazon.com

• Berkow, Robert, Mark Beers, and Andrew Fletchler, eds. The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition. New York, NY: Pocket Books, 1999. ISBN: 0671027271.
            "The team of nearly 200 experts, consultants, and authors has assembled a body of information so vast that listing select items fails to do it justice. The Merck Manual provides reams of useful medical information, ranging from fundamentals such as anatomy to crisp, easily understood descriptions of complicated diseases. Clear drawings of basic anatomical details and helpful sidebars that define terms and proffer advice are invaluable features, as is the up-to-date counsel on choosing the right form of exercise." -from Amazon.com   Forthcoming Edition in 2003: Merck Manual: Medical Information, Second Home Edition. ISBN: 0911910352.

Bibliographies Bibliographies are an excellent starting point when trying to find good books and prominent authors in a certain field. The following sources provide such information on pancreatic cancer literature.

• Nordquist, Joan, compiler. Cancer and the Environment: A Bibliography. Santa Cruz, CA: Reference and Research Services, 1999. ISBN: 1892068044.
            "…It provides a thorough record of popular, professional, and research articles, books, dissertations, conference proceedings, professional society reports, government publications, organizations, and Websites on various aspects of the theme. …The slim bibliography is not annotated, but is organized by subjects such as water pollution and cancer, smoking and cancer, breast cancer and environmental pollution, and magnetic fields and cancer." -from Guide to Reference Books, 1996

• Olson, James S. The History of Cancer: An Annotated Bibliography. Westport, CT: Greenwood Publishing Group, 1989. ISBN: 0313258899.
            "A comprehensive bibliography that emphasizes documents in the history of the etiology, manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer, and on persons with distinguished careers in cancer research and treatment. Citations to approximately 3,000 articles are arranged in 30 categories. Helpful cross-references; author and subject index." -from Guide to Reference Books, 1996

Periodicals Journals are a writer's best bet for keeping track of relevant research. Although there are no journals devoted entirely to pancreatic cancer studies (or research), there are a few which routinely contain articles on the topic. The following journals are considered among the best that provide excellent literature on pancreatic cancer.

• Cancer Sourcebook. Detroit, MI: Omnigraphics, Inc. Edward Prucha, ed. Started: 1990. Irregular. Audience: consumer. Price: USD 78.00 per volume.
            "Offers basic information about the most common forms of cancer and their stages. Includes facts on primary and secondary neoplasms of all kinds, along with treatment options and advice on coping." -from Ulrich's Periodicals Directory

• Coping With Cancer. Franklin, TN: Media America. Kay Thomas, ed. Started: 1986. Bi-monthly. Audience: consumer. Price: USD 19.00.
            "Targets those affected by cancer. Empowers readers by providing the knowledge they need to cope with the many issues in their daily lives. Aims to inspire patients and survivors to assume greater responsibility for, and participation in, the many aspects of their disease." -from Ulrich's Periodicals Directory

• Journal of the Pancreas. Genova, Italy: E S Burioni Ricerche Bibliografiche. Raffaele Pezzilli and Generoso Uomo, eds. Started: 2000. Bi-Monthly. Audience: scholarly/academic.
            "Focuses on the entire spectrum of the pancreatic gland aspects: normal function, etiology, epidemiology, prevention, genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, surgical and medical management of pancreatic diseases including cancer, inflammatory diseases, diabetes mellitus, cystic fibrosis and other congenital disorders. JOP also publishes: case reports, state-of-the-art reviews, book reviews, hypotheses and letters to the Editors. Comments on controversial issues and reviews of articles are also considered." -from Ulrich's Periodicals Directory

Directories Directories are primarily lists of peoples and/or organizations with some detailed specific information about them, such as facts and contact information. The following directory cites details information regarding cancer research that has been investigated and is the basis for research conducted today.

• Sankaranaravanan, R., J Wahrendorf, and E Demaret, eds. Directory of On-Going Research in Cancer Epidemiology. New York, NY: Oxford University Press, Incorporated, 1996. ISBN: 9283221370.

            "Biennial edition of a directory of more than 1,101 international cancer epidemiology research projects. Extensively cross-indexed. For libraries and researchers in oncology and epidemiology." -from Amazon.com "List of projects, Algeria…Zimbabwe, 7 indexes: investigators, topics, sites, types of study, chemicals, occupations, countries. List of cancer registries. List of biological materials banks. Indexes on diskette." -from Walford's (discussing 1992 version)

Handbooks Handbooks provide instructions or serve as guides to a specific topic. The following handbook details the biology of cancer in general, and also delves into "organ-specific cancers." In addition, treatments used in conquering various cancers are also discussed. As this is relatively technical, it may not be appropriate for all consumers, and by no means is the list comprehensive.

• Alison, Malcolm R. The Cancer Handbook (set). New York, NY: Nature Publishing Group, 2001. ISBN: 1561592897.
            "This two-volume set provides information on all major aspects of cancer biology. The 102 contributions discuss the molecular basis of cell and tissue organization, the pathways by which cells disregard signals to stop proliferating and signals to differentiate, the capacity for sustained proliferation, evasion of apoptosis, and the ability to invade and induce angiogenesis; the causation and prevention of cancer; systemic oncology; a review of the many models used to dissect the basic processes common to many cancers, as well as organ-specific cancers and common methodologies such as tissue culture and transgenic technology; diagnostic imaging and image-guided intervention; and treatment of human cancer now and in the future as the new generation of molecular therapeutics develops. Contains many b&w and color illustrations." --From Book News, Inc.

Web Resources There are a multitude of sites on the web devoted to pancreatic cancer. The following are some of the best web sources for information about the topic. They are not meant to be comprehensive. However, they provide links to many other related sites.

• American Cancer Society [www.cancer.org/]

            Provides patients, family members, survivors, and professionals a variety of information including discussion boards, information regarding local activities and resources, cancer specific information, links to other cancer-related websites, articles regargind the newest treatments and findings, and other pertinent information. Also available in Spanish. Very accessible to the general public, and a first-step towards gaining information on cancer.

• Cancer Page.com: Pancreatic Cancer [www.cancerpage.com/cancers/default.asp?channel=Pancreatic_Cancer]
            At first glance, this page seems overwhelming, but cast aside the superfluous advertising, and you will find information on pancreatic cancer including: prevention, screening, treatment, and links to the latest articles from Reuters Health. In addition, special services are offered including, "Ask Our RN," FAQs, Shared Stories, and Support Group Chats. Information regarding cancer, in general, can be found at: [www.cancerpage.com]

• MedLine Plus Healthcare Information: Pancreatic Cancer [www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/pancreaticcancer.html]
            Providing information from the National Library of Medicine, this website provides resources relating to pancreatic cancer, such as: general overview, alternative therapy, clinical trials, diagnosis/symptoms, disease management, prevention/screening, research, specific conditions/aspects, and treatment. Also provided are links to a directory of approved cancer treatment facilities, a cancer dictionary, statistics regarding pancreatic cancer, and organizations that specifically deal with this type of cancer. Also provided is the ability to search for recent articles relating to pancreatic cancer, although they are often geared more towards the medical professional. Information regarding cancer, in general, can be found at: [www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/cancergeneral.html]

• National Cancer Institute [www.nci.nih.gov/]

            A government sponsored website providing information on cancer (both specific and general), research programs and funding, clinical trials, statistics, and other pertinent information. A second step on the journey to information on cancer, but requires knowledge of methods to searching, and is inundated with medical jargon, at times. Available in Spanish.

• National Cancer Institute: Pancreatic Cancer [pancreas.cancer.gov]
            A section of the National Cancer Institute website specifically detailing information on pancreatic cancer including treatment, prevention, genetics, causes, screening and testing, clinical trials, statistics, cancer literature, and related information, with an option to search as a patient or health professional. A solid second step in researching pancreatic cancer.

• The National Pancreas Foundation [www.pancreasfoundation.org/]
            Offers information specific to the pancreas, for general reference and physicians, on diseases of the pancreas, recipes, FAQs, clinical trials, news and announcements, and links. Also includes an "ask the doctor" section.

• Oncology Channel: Pancreatic Cancer [www.oncologychannel.com/pancreaticcancer/index.shtml]

            A tremendously informative website specifically detailing information on pancreatic cancer, including symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, staging, treatment, prevention, questions to ask your doctor, and self-help. In addition, this website is searchable, allows users to ask questions of doctors in the "Oncology Forum," provides an "MD locater" -searchable by state, zip code, or name of doctor, and provides a searchable glossary of terms associated with cancer. This website is particularly helpful as it is intended for the patient and her family, as opposed to being geared towards the medical professional. Furthermore, it is very easy to navigate. The website is maintained by oncology physicians, and therefore of reputable authority. Information regarding cancer, in general, can be found at: [www.oncologychannel.com]

• Pancreatic Cancer Action Network [www.pancan.org/index.html]
            Provides information on raising pancreatic awareness in order to secure funds to increase research, as well as providing inspirational stories from those affected by pancreatic cancer. An important site for those who wish to serve as advocates of pancreatic research and awareness.

• Pancreatic Cancer Online [www.healthyfoundations.com/pancreatic/]
            Provides information specifically for the patient, on pancreatic cancer, including: self-help, treatment, the Whipple procedure, energy exercises, message boards, links and resources. A member of the Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Ring.

• Pancreatica - Confronting Pancreatic Cancer [www.pancreatica.org]
            Provides information specific to pancreatic cancer including: searchable clinical trials, news and archives, newswire services, FAQs and several links including: support and advocacy, information regarding cancer in general and pancreatic cancer, research links, discussion forums, pancreatic cancer centers, and various research resources. A good starting point, as it is an annotated bibliography and therefore, allows some foresight.

Indexes and Abstracts Research about pancreatic cancer, and cancer in general, is found in the literature of medicine. To find related information, look in the indexes listed below under such topics as cancer, pancreatic cancer, the pancreas, and diseases of the pancreas. The order in which the indexes are displayed below reflects the sources most likely to have a greater number of references to relevant published materials.

• CancerLit database via SilverPlatter (covers 1984-present) Contains more than 1.4 million citations, with abstracts, of the worldwide literature on oncological epidemiology, pathology, treatment,and research. Sources include more than 3500 journals in both English and other languages, as well as conference papers, books, symposia reports, monographs, dissertations, and doctoral theses. Updated quarterly.

• Cancer-CD database via SilverPlatter (covers 1984-present) Covers the world's published literature dealing with all aspects of cancer with more than 850,000 references, abstracts and commentaries from 1984 to the present. Updated quarterly.

• The New England Journal of Medicine database via Ovid Technologies (covers current five years) Contains the complete text of the The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) including all reports, case records, and correspondence. Provides coverage of research and other developments in all fields of medicine. Also includes all NEJM citations and abstracts since 1966 from Medline, the U.S. National Library of Medicine's database.

Audiovisual Materials Audiovisual materials can be used to complement other resources and exist in a variety of formats including: cassettes, videocassettes, CD-ROM, CD, and DVDs, among others. Such resources allow exposure to information that may lend itself to being more clearly understood via visual presentation. The specific resource cited could be used if pancreatic cancer awareness is the goal.

• Pancreatic Cancer: Search for the Cure. Princeton, NJ: Films for the Humanities and Sciences, 2000. Format: VHS. ISBN: 0736524134.
            "Examines efforts being made by dedicated specialists to hold this most lethal of diseases at bay while other strive to raise money for research. Key figures in pancreatic research discuss therapies that have proved helpful to a number of patients." -from Ulrich's Periodicals Directory

Books for the Adult Consumer There are several books available for those wishing to learn more about cancer in general, and pancreatic cancer, specifically. These books offer information such as, what treatments are available, as well as alternative techniques to fighting cancer, and suggestions for coping. The items listed are merely suggestions as to what is available and may be helpful, but the list is by no means comprehensive.

• Abbruzzese, James and Benham Ebrahimi. Myths and Facts about Pancreatic Cancer: What You Need to Know. Melville, NY: PRR Incorporated, 2002. ISBN: 1891483161.

• American Cancer Society, Inc Staff, eds. American Cancer Society's Complementary and Alternative Cancer Methods Handbook. Atlanta, GA: American Cancer Society, Incorporated, 2000. ISBN: 0944235409.

• Dooley, Joseph F and Marian Betancourt. The Coming Cancer Breakthroughs: What You Need to Know About the Latest Cancer Treatment Options. New York, NY: Kensington Publishing Corporation, 2002. ISBN: 1575668432.

• Gilbar, Ora and Hasida Ben-Zur. Cancer and the Family Caregiver: Distress and Coping. Springfield, IL: Charles C Thomas Publishing, Limited, 2002. ISBN: 0398072914.

• Givler, Amy. Hope in the Face of Cancer: A Survival Guide for the Journey You Did Not Choose. Eugene, OR: Harvest House Publishers, 2003. ISBN: 0736909907.

• Hou, Joseph P. Alternative Therapies for Cancer and Common Ailments: A Practical Guide to the Healing Properties of Chinese Herbal Remedies and Health Food. Bloomington, IN: 1stBooks Library, 2002. ISBN: 0759695865.

• Kapadia, Cyrus and C Taylor. An Atlas of Gastroenterology. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press LLC, 2001. ISBN: 185070581X.
            "Going beyond mere diagnosis, An Atlas of Gastroenterology covers everything from swallowing difficulties to treatment of jaundiced and immuno-compromised patients. Tables, illustrations, and case histories put the information at your fingertips. Leading experts combine lucid text with extensive illustrations to interpret the concepts needed for a firm grasp of the topic. Coverage includes swallowing difficulties, heartburn, dyspepsia, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, colonic polyps and colon cancer, pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, the jaundiced patient and the immuno-compromised patient. Published principally for family and primary care physicians An Atlas of Gastroenterology describes all aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal disease." -from Amazon.com (book description)

• Moore, Katen. Living Well With Cancer: A Nurse Tells You Everything You Need to Know About Managing the Side Effects of Your Treatment. New York, NY: Berkley Publishing Group, 2002. ISBN: 0399527516.
            "Over two million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. In the wake of this life-altering diagnosis, patients must process avalanches of information and decide on treatments, all the while dealing with intense emotions and physical changes. Oncology nurse Moore was well aware of these challenges but found that there was no single resource that she could recommend as a guide for newly diagnosed cancer patients. As a result, she and childhood friend Schmais (The Perfect Elizabeth) joined forces to produce this manual of sorts for cancer patients. Readers will find information on all of the major aspects of dealing with cancer, from symptom management and remedies to realistic advice on day-to-day living, incorporating conventional and complementary medicine. Though little of what the authors present here is new information, recently diagnosed patients will find the single-volume format friendly and accessible." -from Library Journal via Amazon.com

• Murray, Michael T., ed. How to Prevent and Treat Cancer with Natural Medicine. New York, NY: The Putnam Publishing Group, 2002. ISBN: 1573222224.
            "More than 35 books on alternative or complementary treatments for cancer have been published in the last ten years, not including those on specific cancers, but this title stands out. Besides being exceptionally well written and researched, it is also very reader-friendly. Authored by four naturopathic physicians and endorsed by the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, the book begins with a discussion of how to prevent cancer with natural medicine and diet. A somewhat complicated cancer-risk self-assessment survey appears here. The second section covers responding to a cancer diagnosis and key questions to ask. A chapter on cancer-fighting natural products explores what the authors call "the super eight" and includes dosages of these compounds for specific cancers. The mind-body connection is also explored at length. The third section, which is the most useful in the book, addresses the use of natural medicines to help combat the side effects of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. The extensive appendixes include daily plans for preventing and beating cancer and recipes." -from Library Journal via Amazon.com

• O'Reilly, Eileen and Joanne Kelvin. 100 Questions and Answers About Pancreatic Cancer. Sudbury, MA: Jones & Bartlett Publishers, Incorporated, 2002. ISBN: 0763720577.

• Williams, Ben A. Surviving Terminal Cancer: Clinical Trials, Drug Cocktails, and Other Treatments Your Oncolog st Won't Tell You About. Minneapolis, MN: Fairview Press, 2002. ISBN: 1577491165.
            "Consumer text explains how patients can improve their odds for survival by demanding control over their health care, research conventional and alternative treatments, creating their own treatment strategy, and using the Internet to learn of new medical advances." -from Amazon.com (book info)

Books for the Child Consumer The following resources are written specifically for kids or suggest ways to communicate with kids, when a loved one is diagnosed by cancer. The first book listed is written from two sisters point of view when their mother was diagnosed, and may serve as a great starting point for discussion. By no means is this list comprehensive.

• Ackermann, Abigail and Adrienne Ackermann. Our Mom has Cancer. Atlanta, GA: American Cancer Society, Incorporated, 2002. ISBN: 0944235166.

• Croker, J M. Helping the Child Understand Cancer: Is My Mother Going to Die? Fort Myers Beach, FL: Croker Books, 2002. ISBN: 0971903409.

• Van Dernoot, Peter. Helping Your Children Cope with Your Cancer: A Guide for Parents. Long Island City, NY: The Hatherleigh Company, Limited, 2002. ISBN: 1578261058.
            "A moving and profound book. Cancer is bad news. It's frightening to even think about it. Now think how frightening it would be for your children to know you have cancer. How do you tell them? How do you deal with the trauma and the pain? How do you prepare for the emotional and psychological upheaval a family endures when a parent has cancer? Now author Peter van Dernoot has gathered the real-life stories and experiences of over twenty parents who have been diagnosed with cancer. They share their deepest fears and their highest hopes as they provide the reader with invaluable advice, guidance and inspiration. This is a very special gift from families affected by cancer to families affected by cancer. Children are often the silent victims of their parent's cancer. Now this beautiful, moving, inspiring and informative book fills the critical need of children at their most vulnerable moments. Royalties from the sale of this book are being donated to The Children's Treehouse Foundation, a non-profit support group for children whose parents have cancer." -from Amazon.com (book description)

Biographies These sources contain biographies of people affected by cancer. In addition to the biographies that the following sources give, there may be bibliographies, which suggest a direction for where to go for further information.

• Armstrong, Lance. It's Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life. New York, NY: Penguin Putnam, Incorporated, 2000. ISBN: 0399146113.
            "When Armstrong was diagnosed with testicular cancer, the prognosis was not encouraging. When it spread to his lungs and brain, most medical professionals gave up hope for his recovery. But not Lance. He studied his disease, interviewed doctors, chose a treatment, and fought for his life. This isn't a book for the squeamish as it spares few medical details but it isn't just about cancer. It's the story of the athlete as a young boy and his relationship with his single mother, his success as a world-class cyclist and his friends in that world, and his financial backers who supported him emotionally as well as monetarily. It records his winning the Tour de France, courting his future wife, and the birth of his son. This fabulous tribute to the strength of the human spirit is an inspiration to everyone." --from School Library Journal via Amazon.com

• Drescher, Fran. Cancer Schmancer. Waterville, ME: Thorndike Press, 2002. ISBN: 0786246111.
            "Television star (The Nanny) and author (Enter Whining) Drescher details the two-year, eight-plus-doctor ordeal she endured to diagnose her uterine cancer. She goes from gynecologist (two) and internist to hematologist to oncologist/breast specialist, back to gynecologist, then to vascular specialist, neurologist, and finally gynecologist (the third) before discovering the cause of her bleeding, cramping, and painful sex. She underwent surgery, refused radiation, and continues to play in the fields of celebrity. Drescher also discusses the mechanics of putting out a weekly TV series, the breakup of her longtime marriage, and meeting a new man." -from Library Journal via Amazon.com

• Dyer, Diana. A Dietician's Cancer Story. ISBN: 096672383X.
            "The 2002 edition of this very popular book has a beautiful new cover and both new and revised up-to-date information for all people diagnosed with cancer. The author is a Registered Dietitian who is also a 3-time cancer survivor (a childhood cancer, neuroblastoma, and breast cancer in 1984 and then 1995). In her book, she shares both information and inspiration from her personal cancer recovery journey after her most recent diagnosis in 1995, in which she combined conventional cancer therapy with nutritional changes and many complementary medicine therapies." -from Amazon.com (book description)