Are Increasing 5-Year Survival Rates Evidence of Success Against Cancer?

Article Abstract:

Increased five-year survival rates for many types of cancer are probably a result of the fact that people are being diagnosed at an earlier stage when the cancer is more easily cured. Between 1950 and 1995, there was an increase in the five-year survival rate for 20 different types of cancer. The increase ranged from 3% for pancreatic cancer to 50% for prostate cancer. During the same period, mortality rates for 12 types of cancer decreased but increased for the remaining 8 types. There was no association between the mortality rate and the five-year survival rate.

Statistical Data Included, Patient outcomes, Mortality

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Enthusiasm for cancer screening in the United States

Article Abstract:

Almost 90% of Americans believe routine tests for cancer are a good idea and that finding cancer early can save lives, according to a survey of 500 people. Many doctors believe cancer screening is not always beneficial and may lead to excessive diagnostic tests and unnecessary treatments. The public's enthusiasm for cancer screening puts them at the mercy of companies that are marketing whole body CT scans to the general public.

United States, Public affairs, Surveys, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Public opinion, Americans, Cancer screening

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Language barriers in medicine in the United States

Article Abstract:

Improved communication between physicians and patients with limited English proficiency can prevent misunderstandings and frustration and contribute to better health care and patient compliance. Despite the large numbers of persons with limited English proficiency in the US, interpretation services are lacking in most health facilities. Poor communication between physician and patient can result in missed or erroneous diagnoses, unnecessary tests and treatment failures. Informed consent may not be possible, and both physician and patient experience dissatisfaction with their encounters. Although the Dept of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights considers inadequate interpretation a form of discrimination, enforcement is minimal, based mainly on complaints received. Guidelines for medical interpreters should be established. Hospitals could hire trained interpreters, train bilingual staff in interpreting, or use telephone interpreting services. In addition to eliminating language barriers, physicians should become familiar with health beliefs of other cultures.

Social aspects, Management, Usage, Physician and patient, Physician-patient relations, Translating and interpreting, Translation (Languages), Transcultural medical care

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