PATIENTS DICTIONARY OF FRAMING
Medical Doublespeak & the Words That Shape Consent
“Words are the first treatment—and often the first manipulation.”
What Is Framing?
Framing is the invisible border around a fact. It doesn’t change what’s true—but it changes how it sounds, how you feel, and what you’ll accept.
Call it “therapy,” and it sounds healing.
Call it “controlled carcinogen exposure,” and it sounds harmful.
Both are true. But only one is palatable.
In cancer care, this isn’t random. It’s strategic. Institutions, protocols, and policies use language to soften, obscure, or normalize realities that—if plainly stated—might shake your trust.
If the words are bent, the choices built on them can’t be trusted.
How to Use This Dictionary
Print it or bookmark it — bring it to appointments
Use it to slow down the conversation
Ask what’s behind the language before you agree
“Therapy” does not mean healing.
“Standard” does not mean best.
“Consent” does not always mean choice.
Closing Message
Words are not neutral.
They shape how truth feels. They define what’s acceptable.
In cancer care, they are often the first treatment.
And sometimes, the first manipulation.
“Use your words to reclaim your power.