Abstract

Since life events may be considered stressors, how to improve the behavioural health of the cancer patient is worthy of study. This was done by going back to the year 1824 in order to appreciate how two medical masters scientifically handled the well being of an affected patient and a patient’s relative. It is concluded that these historical antecedents provide useful data applicable to modern stress management, not only by giving a glimmer of hope but also by mollifying temper.

Key words: Coping, stress, cancer, behavioural health, history.