Cancer nursing is a rapidly developing speciality. It encompasses some of the most exciting and rewarding aspects of modern health care. This text reflects the breadth of learning cancer nurses now require. It is aimed primarily at nurses entering the speciality for the first time or undergoing specialized training, though all nurses and therapists should find its focus on health care from the patient's point of view relevant. The book takes an integrated approach, setting illness and care in context. It examines previously neglected areas to create a comprehensive picture of cancer care grounded in the most up-to-date knowledge and research, and the day-by-day experience of patients and professionals. The book is divided into seven sections which build around the following themes: cancer and society; the experience of cancer; the experience of treatment; the management of cancer care and the experience of nursing; palliative care and cancer; health services and cancer care; and research and cancer care. The book includes contributions from clinicians, educators and researchers. It responds to the increasing role of higher education in nursing, and to the growing numbers of nurses taking specialized diplomas and degrees.