NPR

Facing cancer? Here's when to consider experimental therapies, and when not to

It can be easy to get your hopes up about exciting new research or alternative approaches to cancer treatment. Here's an insider's guide for figuring out which ones are worth your time.
Experimental therapies for cancer can be tempting when you're sick, but many fail to offer any benefit.

Note: Molecular biologist and author Jeff Stewart has worked more than 15 years as a consultant to drugmakers, scrutinizing data on new treatments to fight cancer. Last July, the 50-year-old father of seven was diagnosed with stomach cancer himself. He spent much of the next 10 months in treatment, while also writing the newly published Living: Inspiration from a Father with Cancer.

His book is a compilation of life lessons and reflections that "helped me endure hard times and avoid harder ones," he says. Framed as a life guide for his kids, it also includes insider advice for anyone facing a cancer diagnosis. The following excerpts have been edited for length and clarity. --Editors

As a cancer patient, I'm getting forwarded many, many articles about early stage cancer treatments and alternative therapies. I think every cancer patient gets these. I'm public about my cancer, so I'm getting these from more than friends and family. I'm getting

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR2 min read
U.S. Troops And Equipment Will Leave Niger By Mid-September, The Pentagon Says
Niger's decision to kick out American forces dealt a blow to U.S. military operations in the Sahel. U.S. troops and some gear already have begun leaving the country.
NPR1 min read
Don't Fight Back
In 1964, the Birmingham Barons become Alabama's first integrated sports team. This is 17 years after Jackie Robinson integrated the Major Leagues. What took so long?Today, we hear how baseball helps desegregate America's most segregated city. Roy Woo
NPR1 min read
New Music Friday: The best albums out June 14
This week, NPR Music's Daoud Tyler-Ameen and Ann Powers steer the New Music Friday podcast straight into the oncoming Father's Day weekend, following the lead of country superstar Luke Combs, whose new album Fathers & Sons is a heartfelt meditati

Related Books & Audiobooks