Main description:

Reconstruction is a complete guide to navigating breast cancer treatment that combines the very best and most recent medical information with lifestyle guidance.

1 in 7 women in the UK will receive a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, and that figure is increasing. 55,920 new cases are diagnosed every year; more than 150 a day. In most countries, a breast cancer patient walks through both the medical and the lifestyle treatment doors simultaneously but, in the UK, treatment is confined to what is prescribed by NHS guidelines. Those guidelines, however, don't always include essential information, like how to avoid common post-surgical complications, the simple lifestyle steps that can support you through treatment, and how to overcome fear of recurrence to live a full life after cancer. Written by a breast cancer patient and journalist, and incorporating advice from experts in oncology, surgery, nutrition, physiotherapy, psychology and science, this book is a sage, balanced, well-informed companion to anyone going through breast cancer, and their friends and family.

It's deeply practical and specific, with advice on everything from treatment options and who's who on your medical team, down to what to pack in your hospital bag for surgery or chemo. Chapters include: embracing acceptance, an integrated healing approach, chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, menopausal symptoms, secondary breast cancer, choosing hope and future-proofing your body with nutrition, movement and stress management.