Quality of Life: A Cerebral Affair

Abstract

Remarkable progress has been made in the treatment of cancer over the past quarter of a century, with notable prolongation of patient survival. But, the idea that biologic existence, though necessary, is not necessarily sufficient to ensure quality of life is slowly taking root in oncology. Patients, their families, and many physicians now accept the fact that the pursuit of cure for the “scourge of scourages” has not been without considerable price. As a result, there is growing recognition that therapeutic success all too frequently, and tragically, is characterized by life, that is, so to speak, unfit for human consumption.

To look into the heart is not enough; One must also look into the cerebral cortex.T. S. Eliot