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What Not to Say to a Cancer Patient
Article

What Not to Say to a Cancer Patient

Jane E. Brody
The New York Times, 2016
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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Applicable
  • Inspiring

Recommendation

Personal health columnist Jane E. Brody clearly explains which common approaches to cancer patients to avoid and why, based on insight into how they make patients feel. Backed up by expert authors, she outlines what to do and say to help people with cancer feel cared for. None of the suggestions are difficult or time-consuming; they’re simply things many people don’t think to do. Once explained, they are easy to understand and remember. getAbstract recommends Brody’s cogent advice to everyone who cares about someone battling cancer.

Take-Aways

  • “How are you?” isn’t the best thing to ask a cancer patient. It can come across as invasive, and it confronts people with their vulnerability.
  • Cancer patients need practical help, not upbeat sentiments. Offer support such as child care, food shopping or going along as company when keeping an appointment.
  • Sit calmly and listen; these simple acts can help cancer patients talk about difficult topics.

About the Author

Jane E. Brody is an award-winning personal health columnist for The New York Times.

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