Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Life Quality VS Quantity

A study has gotten a lot of attention recently, explaining that doctors are more likely to put off chemotherapy or other risky procedures, and enjoy their remaining days as much as possible.

As a culture, we are obsessed with living forever.  That the people who know the most are willing to put those treatments aside shouldn't be taken lightly.  There is no data as to whether they recommend this for their patients, or  if it's just an accepted medical standard that they do everything possible.

I have a long history with cancer, medical treatments, and the quality vs. quantity argument.  It's a personal decision, but I think it should be presented more often as an actual option.  Most people are determined to fight to the bitter last breath, as should be their right if they choose.  However, most people don't consider letting nature run its course and enjoying those last few months or years instead of suffering in a hospital bed.  As with any medical choice, we should be able to choose our own destiny.  Maybe this study will remind patients there is another option, and for some it will be the right one.

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