[Breast cancer as a social problem and common aspects with other oncologic patients]

Problems of peculiar relationships between oncologists, society and general public, on the one hand, and cancer patients, on the other, are discussed with respect to breast cancer. It is suggested that if one's right to take care of one's life is to be honored, cancer patients are to have access to more information on their disease must doctor should be prepared to give away more of it in their conversations. Once one is aware of responsibility for one's health, the advantages of an earlier visit to a doctor and, conversely, the tragedy of a belated call become quite apparent. Such awareness is not feasible unless society becomes the patients ally in every-day activities of cancer control. This approach calls for a revision of somewhat out-dated deontological principles as well as measures aimed at getting the public to change their attitudes towards cancer patients. Simultaneously, the medical profession must receive an education in dealing healthy people and cancer patients. The engagement of former cancer patients, who have an experience of a program of social rehabilitation, will make the efforts to cure those who are still sick more meaningful and boost their morale.