Editorial

I have been told by patients and friends that it must be terribly depressing taking up medical oncology as a specialty discipline. “Imagine having to deal with people dying!” they say. In fact, what I have learnt is to treasure the living and the people we love around us instead. In this issue, we want to celebrate intimacy in relationships. Of course, this does not imply just sex, although it does make life more exciting and interesting. Firstly, the “problem” is not often recognised. There can be many physical, emotional and social changes that affect the ability to enjoy intimacy. This could mean touching less often, fewer occasions of close communication for fear of bringing up the topic or not meeting the sexual needs of one another. This itself can sometimes lead to feelings of frustration, alienation and rejection by either patient or partner. We plan to address some of these uncomfortable topics in a forum and in this issue. I find the quick tips section informative and helpful.