The Role of Kindness in Cancer Care

Cancer is a disease that affects nearly everyone. An estimated 1.7 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2018 and more than 600,000 people died from the disease, according to the National Cancer Institute. A cancer diagnosis brings with it emotions for the patient, as well as the family and caregivers. Feelings of depression, anxiety and fear are common, presenting a challenge for the care team. "Cancer is a life-changing experience, it may not be life ending, but it's always life-changing. And it impacts the family, not just the patient," says Dr. Leonard Berry, a health care delivery expert and author of "Management Lessons From Mayo Clinic."

On this Mayo Clinic Radio program episode, Dr. Berry will share his thoughts on the role of kindness in cancer care.