AboutMichael Dean Expertise Can answer
General information on the causes of cancer and cancer prevention.
Information on current cancer research and breakthroughs.
The genetics of cancer
The risk of smoking for lung cancer and other cancers, as well as SIDS, heart disease, and vision loss.
Cannot answer
Specific medical questions
Experience Cancer Researcher for over 20 years
Author of the book "Empty Cribs-The impact of smoking on child health" www.artsciencepub.com.
Author of over 200 scientific articles on cancer, genetics and human disease.
Multiple interviews in print, TV and radio media.
Organizations American Association for Cancer Research
American Association of Human Genetics
Publications Scientific journals (Science, Nature, NE Journal Medicine, etc.)
Scientific American, Discovery Medicine, Nature Reviews in Cancer
Education/Credentials PhD. in Biochemistry from Boston University School of Medicine
Awards and Honors Young Investigator award-American Association of Cancer Research
Question what stages are there in cancer, for terminal patient?
and i dont mean the typical 4 stages, i mean specific stages.
i need to know from the very beginning to the very end, meaning death
he has lung cancer from smoking, and it is untreatable. he is middle aged.
please and thank you
Susan
Answer Dear Susan,
I am sorry to hear that someone you know has cancer.
The progress of cancer varies greatly depending on the cancer, the treatments and facility, the person, the patients wishes in terms of care, among others.
Some patients lose their appetite and lose a lot of weight. Some experience a lot of pain and have to be on very strong pain drugs, making it hard to interact with them. Others can be quite healthy otherwise and pass away quickly. If you can help the patient plan his last days and make the most of them that is a great thing. There are many hospice organizations that can help patients spend as much time out of the hospital as possible.
There are a number of forums for people to exchange information about going through this process for the fiend or family member. You are not alone. Here is one: