Revealing The Secrets of Cancer | An Informative Guide to Treatment, Prevention and Recovery | Cancer Survivors Stories

This review is by Asavari Wagle. I have been in the field of Oncology for >15 years. This book by Dr. Sulochana Gawande is rare in its explanation of cancer. As I read the book, I felt that she was sitting by me, teaching, explaining, patiently, as would a dedicated, caring and inspiring teacher. And thus, she makes a difficult disease simple so people without scientific background can understand it. And those in the field marvel at how she demystifies the complex biology. Whereas any discourse on cancer is usually depressing, Dr. Gawande's book exudes a positive attitude and strives to diminish fear. Rather than bashing pharmaceutical companies for hype and popularity, she very aptly describes their contribution to the field of Oncology. With patient stories, the lessons we learn from them, life's philosophy and values, the book, despite on a subject like cancer, becomes an interesting read. I thank Dr. Gawande for embarking on this mission of helping people to understand Cancer better.

Dr. Sulu Gawande has produced a must read book to all those patients and their families who find themselves involved in a cancer related life experience. Her scientific background and medical communication expertise provide the perfect balance of explaining the science not too deeply while writing with a style that speaks in an understandable way to the common person. This is the sweet spot of this book! Personally, I am a retired oncologist who was educated at the National Cancer Institute in the early 1970s who knew many of the great physician scientists who led the development of today’s modern approaches to cancer therapy. I personally practiced oncology for twenty five years and with my colleagues led the development of a large midwestern community cancer center that participated heavily in national clinical trials. In 2000 I joined Eli Lilly as the U.S. Medical Director for Oncology. It was there that Sulu was a valuable member of the team and I came to recognize her unique skills. I later moved to Novartis and led the clinical development of Gleevec/Glivec on the Global Product Team. I have specifically closely reviewed the “Targeted Therapy” chapter that emphasizes the revolutionary development of Gleevec in an accurate understandable way. Later chapters in my own life include working in India for several years to develop botanicals into new drugs as well as working as a contract physician for Astra/Zeneca running the international trials that registered Imfinzi in both the treatment of Stage 3 non-small cell lung cancer as well as advanced small cell lung cancer. Professionally and personally Sulu and I have been together for decades and this is why I so highly recommend this book.

One can only imagine the terror when a doctor gives someone the dreaded diagnosis of cancer. The patient and their family and friends often don't know much about the illness. At such times, frantic googling, talking to people etc gives a glimpse of what it is, but it's not enough. What is helpful is a book that is easy to read, starting from the basic biology of the cell through it's progression to an uncontrolled explosion of growth, to it's manifestation in different areas of the body, to the various treatment options etc. The language is simple, clear, calming and empathetic. Lifestyle measures to help prevent cancer are discussed. And finally, the author's interactions with individuals who went through the cancer journey provide a peek into the actual human experience. Told with clarity, knowledge and compassion, this is a wonderful book that should be made available in every oncologist's office- in fact, in every doctor's office to educate the public about cancer.

Revealing the Secrets of Cancer" by Sulochana Gawande is a comprehensive guide to understanding cancer, its causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. The book provides valuable insights into the disease, and is written in an accessible manner for both medical professionals and lay readers. Highly recommended.

This book strikes a balance between science, storytelling to drive the nuances of the science home, and an appreciation that an average reader is not steeped in biology. I appreciate the common sense approach to lifestyle changes that can help and a careful presentation of the innovations that have transformed lives and continue to fuel hope. Thank you Dr. Sulochana Gawande for showcasing your life’s work for all to benefit.