Aeon Based RC- 9 | Verbal Ability (VA) & Reading Comprehension (RC) - CAT PDF Download

The metaphor of cancer as a battle has been prevalent for over a century. Initially, cancer patients were seen as victims with little hope of survival, but as medical advancements occurred, the notion of a 'fighting spirit' became popular among patients. However, this militaristic language is increasingly being questioned by physicians, psychologists, and patient advocates. As an oncologist, I have seen how such language can lead to patients blaming themselves if treatments fail, believing they lacked strength or will, rather than acknowledging the limitations of medical interventions.

The history of this combative language dates back to the early 20^th century in the United States. The American Society for the Control of Cancer (ASCC), later the American Cancer Society, used slogans like 'Fight Cancer With Knowledge' and incorporated a sword in its logo. This approach aimed to educate the public about cancer for early detection and treatment. During World War II, the Women’s Field Army, part of the ASCC, used military rhetoric to raise awareness and funds.

The 'War on Cancer' became a popular phrase, especially after President Nixon's National Cancer Act of 1971. However, critics like Susan Sontag argued that such metaphors could lead to brutal treatment approaches and obscure the reality of the disease. Despite this, some patients, like poet Audre Lorde, found empowerment in the language of war, seeing themselves as warriors rather than victims.

In the 1980s, the idea of actively 'battling' cancer suggested that patients' knowledge and choices could influence their outcomes. However, studies have shown that the biology of cancer often predominates over psychological factors. The notion that emotional wellbeing significantly impacts cancer survival has been challenged, with research showing no strong correlation.

Today, the emphasis is on avoiding battle metaphors in cancer treatment. The focus is on what can be done societally to help cancer patients, including funding research and ensuring equal access to treatments. The real fight, it seems, is not against cancer itself but against the barriers to effective care and treatment.
Q1: What is the primary concern raised by the author about using militaristic language in the context of cancer?
(a) It can lead to overly aggressive treatments.
(b) It may cause patients to blame themselves for treatment failures.
(c) It discourages patients from seeking early treatment.
(d) It leads to a misunderstanding of cancer biology.

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Q2: How did the American Society for the Control of Cancer (ASCC) use the battle metaphor in the early 20th century?
(a) By encouraging aggressive medical treatments.
(b) Through public education campaigns for early detection.
(c) By funding military-style research into cancer.
(d) Through direct involvement in World War II efforts.

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Q3: According to the passage, what was a significant criticism of the 'War on Cancer'?
(a) It led to a decrease in cancer research funding.
(b) It was based on unrealistic expectations of quick victories.
(c) It ignored the psychological aspects of cancer treatment.
(d) It focused too much on surgical interventions.

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Q4: What stance did Audre Lorde, a poet and cancer patient, take regarding the language of war in the context of cancer?
(a) She rejected it, advocating for more realistic language.
(b) She embraced it, finding empowerment in being seen as a combatant.
(c) She was indifferent, focusing solely on medical outcomes.
(d) She criticized it for promoting false hope among patients.

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Q5: What does recent research suggest about the impact of a patient's emotional wellbeing on cancer survival?
(a) It has a significant impact on survival rates.
(b) It is less influential than previously believed.
(c) It is the primary determinant of treatment success.
(d) It has no impact whatsoever on cancer outcomes.

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Q6: What does the author suggest is the real 'fight' in the context of cancer in modern times?
(a) Striving for a cure through aggressive medical interventions.
(b) Challenging the traditional metaphors used in cancer discourse.
(c) Overcoming barriers to effective care and treatment access.
(d) Encouraging patients to maintain a positive attitude.

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