The definitive Oxford Textbook of Palliative Medicine, now in its fifth edition, has again been thoroughly updated to offer a truly global perspective in this field of extraordinary talent and thoughtfulness. Updated to include new sections devoted to assessment tools, care of patients with cancer, and the management of issues in the very young and the very old, this leading textbook covers all the new and emerging topics since its original publication in 1993. In addition, the multi-disciplinary nature of palliative care is emphasized throughout the book, covering areas from ethical and communication issues, the treatment of symptoms and the management of pain. This fifth edition of the Oxford Textbook of Palliative Medicine is dedicated to the memory of Professor Geoffrey Hanks, pioneer in the field of palliative medicine, and co-editor of the previous four editions. Winner in the Medicine category of the British Medical Association Book Awards, this is a truly comprehensive text, no hospital, hospice, palliative care service, or medical library should be without this essential source of information.