Nothing to Lose: Risk, biases, and communication in cancer care

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Published: 23 Sep 2024
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Prof Christopher Jackson - University of Otago, Otago, New Zeland

Effective communication in oncology is crucial, especially when conveying difficult prognoses. Patients often experience guilt, fear, and anger after a cancer diagnosis, while doctors may exhibit optimism bias, leading to overly positive outlooks. Stress can affect decision-making, and medical jargon complicates understanding. Simplifying language and employing relatable scenarios can improve communication, fostering a stronger therapeutic alliance between patients and healthcare providers.