Different Wars, Same Issues
For the next two days, I want to draw an analogy between the military war experiences of our country and the war on cancer. Interestingly, they have the same issues. We need to learn from our military wars and apply that strategic knowledge to our arch health enemy–cancer.
The best scenario for victory in wartime is an “apolitical” war with everyone focused on winning. The strategy would be clear with unified support. The government branches and agencies would give equable support to all weapons and tactics necessary for victory. Professional support agencies in coordination with industrial suppliers would ensure the development and production of the best weapons without political bias or profiteering. Free market competition would assure the employment of the most efficient and effective weapons and operators. Field generals and battle field commanders would be free to choose the weapons and tactics they deemed best. Troops on the front line could use a wide array of weapons and tactics depending on the enemy capability and movement. Unconventional forces and non-traditional methods of battle would catch the enemy off guard and keep them on the defensive. Ultimately, the lean, mean fighting machine would be victorious. It would have never tasted victory under its previous constraints and status quo.
This is the political, social, and governmental environment necessary to win the war on cancer. Unfortunately, it is more of a dream than a reality. However, we must dream. Then we must fulfill that dream with action. As a nation, our focus on cancer prevention and treatment must be unified. We must be determined to provide the “best” and not get sidetracked with the adequate. Free market competition for treatment options must abound. Doctors must be freed up to prescribe what is needed, not what is convenient and profitable. Everything must be on the table for scientific analysis. Integrative oncology must become the rule rather than the exception.