4: The 'no cure' dilemma for the doctor... and the patient
Doctors are acutely aware of the problem that they have no cure for malignant brain tumour. This has in the past led to a stoical and limited treatment perspective on the part of many doctors. The arrival of Temodal and its use as an adjunct to radiotherapy has altered survival sufficiently for a higher proportion of general oncologists to be prepared to fight harder for brain tumour patients. General practitioners? - many never see a brain tumour patient and it is difficult to expect them all to be up to date.
Doctors are also acutely aware of the extent of knowledge on the internet, including in this group, of new possible treatments under consideration or trial. They also know that on the internet or at the hairdresser, every cancer patient is offered a great array of alternative treatment options.
It remains illegal in Australian law for any person other than a doctor to treat cancer. It is illegal for a doctor to use treatments which have not met standards for their general acceptance.
The top doctors in this field, the neuro-oncologists, are actively involved in research programs. They have knowledge of what is out there, under consideration, while at the same time knowing what they are allowed to use to treat. They cannot respond to all the treatment ideas people bring to them.