17．To Lie or not to Lie the Doctors Dilemma

　　Doctors are often confronted such a choice: to lie or not to lie to their patient. Studies show that they often believe it is reasonable to lie for the patients own sake. Most doctors believe that the seriously ill do not want to know the truth about their condition, and if they tell them the truth, they may lose their hope. Because of such a belief, many doctors may tell white lies to their patients.

　　But now facts are proving that these doctors are wrong. Actually, an overwhelming majority of patients do want to know the truth. We are also learning that truthful information can help patients deal with their disease if we tell it in a proper way.

　　Lies cannot help the patients. Besides, they invade their autonomy and make them unable to make sound decisions. Lies also do harm to those who tell them, their colleagues and the entire medical profession. Therefore, we need to debate this issue openly and put an end to professional deception.