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The present text on “Practical Clinical Oncology” is welcome, important and necessary. This is the first composite Indian text on cancer, written by numerous well-known oncologists and other distinguished doctors associated with the diagnosis and management of cancer, working in our country. Majority of health care problems are often entwined with socio-economic conditions and lifestyle issues. Cancer is no exception. Demographic factors show a continuing rise in its frequency and incidence. In an era of information overload and practice changing paradigms in cancer, a sense of equipoise needs to be maintained. One more text on “CANCER” may appear superfluous and yet the authors contend that the vast majority of our busy oncologists, surgeons, physicians and pathologists working beyond the academic and tertiary cancer centers need a practical approach to the commonly occurring cancers in our country. This, in essence, is the primary objective of this compilation. The authors therefore address only commonly occurring solid tumors, the lymphoproliferative disorders and common neuro-oncology problems. Rare and uncommon cancers have been excluded. This book, therefore, is indeed not a treatise on cancer.

In the new millennium changing paradigms are being witnessed in approach to oncology due to fundamental research as well as technologic and therapeutic innovations. Evidence based medicine are the modern buzz words signifying some progress towards a standard of care for cancer control and cure. Real progress in science and medicine is a painfully slow process and no quantum jump can be expected towards a cancer cure. Fundamental principles of complementary cancer management has remained steadfast, however, conservation surgery, morbidity reduction, greater attention to quality of life issues and palliation for terminal care must receive due consideration. The book addresses these issues in a comprehensive manner. It is needed to show patience towards alternative medicine and greater scientific ethos, as nearly 50% of patients seek alternative medicine along with the current standard of care.