After detection, psychologists can aid in revising attitudes that discourage seeking treatment, such as passive acceptance of fate. Psychologists can offer consultation to agencies on removing barriers where such services are based upon one culture's model. New areas also need to be addressed. Unlike other diseases, cancer is unique in the ambiguity created for the patient. For many illnesses, after diagnosis, a physician can predict the course of the disease, specify the treatment and indicate the chances of recovery.
Cancer represents a challenge because medical knowledge is still unfolding.
Patients, therefore, do not receive clear statements but are presented with options. What psychology can do We need help from psychologists concerning medical decision-making. Perhaps a team of psychologists whose expertise is in cognitive psychology can look at how information is processed. Social psychologists can examine what social and environmental conditions influence personal decisions. Counseling and clinical psychology can explore what personality variables are involved.