In 2003 a medical study reported that a steroid called finasteride (approved as a treatment for hair loss) “significantly cut the incidence of prostate cancer in men at low risk.” But it also had a dark side: clinical studies indicated that men who did develop cancer while taking the drug tended to get more aggressive tumors. English prof and PEN Award winner Justman (Seeds of Mortality
) examines why, despite finasteride's potential, American doctors have shied away from giving it to their male patients, and attributes it to the traditional oath to “do no harm.” Justman claims that the oath is outdated and paternalistic, dating to a time when doctors often did more harm than good. He also cites those who say the benefits of finasteride far outweigh its risks. But he acknowledges that the FDA has not approved finasteride for cancer prevention, and he neglects to consider adequately as a contributing factor the sword of Damocles that swings over so much of modern life: liability lawsuits. Justman tends to be prolix and repetitious. This book may appeal to readers interested in medical ethics and the history of science, but is unlikely to have much draw for general readers. (Apr. 4)
