CANCER . . . LOVE IS STRONG MEDICINE
Bolstering the mental and emotional condition of cancer patients can make a difference in their ability to fight the disease, according to a review of 40 current studies by the UCLA School of Medicine. The February report, the most comprehensive examination of the issue so far, says cancer patients cope better and, in some cases, survive longer, when they communicate with other patients, are given information about their illness, and receive counseling, training in hypnosis and other relaxation techniques. Why? Patients who learn about their illnesses are less likely to sink into resignation and depression, and more likely to eat right and follow medical orders, the UCLA researchers say.