Use of Chemotherapy in Treating Cancer

Dr. Martin Shapiro’s comments in his article were excellent. Although there has been dramatic progress in medicine, many aspects of medical care are still evolving and not yet ideal. Also, excellent physicians may disagree about the benefits and risks of a proposed therapy.

When someone has a medical problem where the treatment is controversial, then this should be clearly indicated by the physician. For example, chemotherapy for most lung cancer is controversial, and of questionable benefit. A patient is certainly entitled to participate in treatment decisions when benefits are uncertain; and should be provided with other alternatives. An “open” and honest approach will strengthen doctor-patient relationships.

EDWARD ANTHONY

OPPENHEIMER MD

Los Angeles

Dr. Oppenheimer is chief of pulmonary medicine of Southern California Permanente Group.