There is evidence that the overall mortality from all causes is increased in patients who are depressed, even after allowance has been made for deaths and suicide.

It seems, therefore, that by encouraging a positive, determined outlook and the “I will fight this growth” approach that the patient would be likely to gain some survival time and reduce the likelihood of secondaries.

It hasn’t worked out like that. Patients can be encouraged to meditate, to visualise their cancer, to will it to go away and to convince themselves that they will get better, but there is little clinical evidence that this makes much difference.

There is some suggestion and anecdotal evidence that those patients either in complete denial of the seriousness of their cancers or who are bowled over by it and turn their faces to the wall do less well.

Conversely, those who have a determination to live as long as possible but don’t let the cancer dominate their lives do rather better.

The suggestion is that in this latter group the effect is probably an indirect one. The same people whose personality lets them carry on as before, except that they seek medical help earlier if they suffer any suspicious symptom, will also take their treatment regularly, however unpleasant the side-effects.

The wise cancer sufferer will also avoid unnecessary elective surgery, find time to get plenty of vitamin D from sunlight (but never be burnt), will have adequate sleep and will not undermine their immune systems with alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, or cocaine. Their diet will be in accord with the Health Department recommendations and include plenty of fresh vegetables - but it doesn’t have to be loaded down with pints of carrot juice or pounds of broccoli.

In general, it is important that too much emphasis isn’t put on the advantages of a positive approach to fighting cancer as this can be very demoralising for those whose cancer continues to progress despite being compliant patients, following every bit of advice given to them by their doctors and friends.

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