This edition of the Gale Encyclopedia of Cancer provides a comprehensive survey of cancers, cancer drugs, traditional and alternative treatments, diagnostic procedures, and side effects. Its 620 entries include more than 40 brand new entries and more than 270 updated entries. Information is organized in an easy-to-read format; standard headings within entries include definition, description, demographics, causes and symptoms, diagnosis, clinical staging, treatment, coping with cancer treatment, treatment team, clinical trials, prevention, prognosis, special concerns, and resources. Rubrics for cancer drug entries include: definition, purpose, description, recommended dosage, precautions, side effects, and interactions. Sidebars include Questions to Ask Your Doctor and Key Terms, which help define more complex medical concepts. Appendixes include a glossary; contact information for state-specific National Cancer Institute comprehensive cancer centers; and contact information for national and international support groups, government agencies, and research groups. Other features include anatomical illustrations of the major body systems; a subject index; and approximately 275 additional photographs, illustrations, and statistical tables.