When the first edition of this book published in 1994, the psychoimmunology of cancer was still emerging as a topic for serious scientific study. Now, less than ten years later, there is a huge quantity of academic literature about the relationships between psychological variables, the immune system and cancer growth, accompanied by a lively popular interest.

In this new edition leading specialists have provided broad critical reviews of the different aspects. Part I, which presents the biological background, will be of particular interest to those with technical knowledge of the relevant laboratory based disciplines. It covers mechanisms mediating the effects of psychological status in the immune system, and anti-cancer mechanisms involving the immune system. Part II is clinically orientated, and accessible to a wide audience. Whether psychotherapeutic interventions can help patients live longer, as well as coping better, is obviously the key question and several contributors consider the clinical evidence for this. A new, speculative chapter on the spiritual context of immunity and cancer has also been added.

The psychoimmunology of cancer involves many complex issues, understanding of which remains far from complete. However, the contributors, besides reviewing the current state of knowledge and the implications for cancer patients, offer predictions for the future and ideas about further research.

From reviews of the first edition:

'The chief quality of this book is its presentation of an excellent but critical overview of the entire range of what is today called 'psychoimmunology', and it is to be recommended to all who are interested in the subject.' Annals of Oncology

Around one in three people in the western world will develop cancer at some stage in life and complementary therapies are increasingly being used alongside orthodox treatments as part of the 'integrative' approach to cancer care. Enhancing Cancer Care is a practical, evidence-based guide to complementary cancer therapies, also described as natural or holistic therapies. More and more patients are turning to these therapies as there is now considerable evidence that they can help with symptom-control and quality-of-life, and that some may also extend survival. Complementary therapies can also provide the patient with a greater sense of control regarding the management of their illness. From the editor of Integrated Cancer Care, this new title provides detailed commentary on a broad range of complementary therapies and features practical advice on how to implement therapies to enhance current practice. The first part of the book deals with the general principles behind complementary therapies and the factors driving their growing popularity, the challenges of evaluating their benefits and unwanted effects, and experience of using them in oncology units, hospices, the private sector and primary care. The second part includes chapters on specific interventions, including complementary therapies such as acupuncture and aromatherapy massage; lifestyle modifications through diet and exercise; creative therapies using art and music; and psychological and spiritual support for individuals and groups. These chapters provide descriptions of the therapies, a summary of the evidence for their benefits in cancer care, and illustrative case histories. The emphasis throughout this book is on enhancing practice; that is, using the therapies alongside conventional medicine, rather than as alternatives to it.

Leaving the English winter for a holiday in the New Zealand sunshine, Iris is hoping to complete her recovery from a serious illness and also to make amends for a shameful incident in her past. But the shock of a mysterious death, the shadows of an old love affair, and the onset of some ominous new symptoms threaten to block her path to healing and forgiveness.

Written by a former medical doctor with experience in both orthodox and alternative medicine, this book aims to provide a clear and balanced outline of the holistic healing approach for both healthcare professionals and general readers. 'Can I help my own recovery by improving my diet, taking more exercise, meditating, having a positive attitude, and reducing my stress levels?' 'Can I use therapies like acupuncture, homoeopathy and herbal medicines as well as drugs and surgery, or even instead of them?' 'Where can I find good information about approaches like these?' 'And why did I get this illness - does it have some meaning and purpose in my life?' Such questions are of vital importance to many of those who are coping with health problems in themselves or in their families, and who want to play an active part in controlling the symptoms and improving the medical prognosis. But many doctors, nurses and other clinicians with an orthodox background feel uncomfortable with them, being unable or unwilling to provide their patients with helpful guidance about 'natural healing' and 'the holistic approach', and sometimes responding in negative ways when they hear these terms. Both mainstream treatments and natural therapies can form part of a holistic programme, and it is seldom helpful to regard orthodox and alternative treatments as polar opposites. But the integrative model which combines the best of both is only practised by a few experts in a few centres, so people on the illness 'journey' who choose to depart from the main highway of orthodox treatment sometimes find themselves on a rather lonely path without clear maps or easy access to support services. This book offers practical guidance about what patients can do to help themselves, what pitfalls to look out for, and how clinicians can provide support. It includes brief reviews of underlying theory, with selected references to other books, websites and the academic literature. It also includes original case histories written by contributors with personal experience of the approaches described. Readers' comments: "Very clear and balanced, not dismissing conventional medicine but allowing and supporting alternatives." "It's a joy to read, it's WHOLE and informative, warm, lovely, precise, elegant and gentle and full of tremendous stories. I loved every single word. Pure gold." "A wonderfully refreshing look at humankind and how the disease process affects us all ... a most worthwhile read."