A diagnosis of breast cancer is among the most frightening moments in a person's life, so frightening that even to formulate questions for the doctor may seem impossible. This helpful book is written as a guide for women and men facing breast cancer and for their caring families and friends. It is also written for women who have not been diagnosed with breast cancer but are concerned that they may be. Drawing on her many years of experience with breast cancer patients, Dr. Ruth Grobstein provides exactly the information they want and need in order to make the best health decisions. Her jargon-free book deals with general issues of interest to all women - mammography, hormone replacement therapy, risk factors for breast cancer, and more - as well as the numerous issues that patients diagnosed with breast cancer confront. Her book will be an indispensable companion, providing reliable information for patients on the journey through a sometimes confusing and impersonal medical system. Features of the book: The most up-to-date information on diagnosis and treatment options, endorsed by top medical experts; Decision trees that lead the way toward sound decisions; An explanation of treatment teams and the roles of their members; Organization that allows the reader to dip into the book at any point; Helpful answers to all the essential questions about breast cancer

Ruth H. Grobstein, M.D., Ph.D., is founding director of the Ida M. and Cecil H. Green Cancer Center and founding head of radiation oncology at the Scripps Clinic in San Diego, where she also holds the Rosenthal Chair in Cancer Prevention and Screening.

"If you or a loved one have been threatened with breast cancer, I urge you to run to the nearest bookstore and buy this book--it might well prove to be life saving. I have sent dozens of my friends to Dr. Ruth Grobstein and without exception, they have called or written to thank me for sending them to Ruth, for her advice made all the difference as they regained confidence and faith in the future."--Deborah Szekely, founder, Golden Door and Rancho La Puerta