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Objective: To understand the attitude of families of advanced cancer patients in Macau towards prognosis disclosure, and to investigate the acceptable method of disclosing prognosis. Method: A convenient sampling method was adopted, and 50 advanced cancer patients' relatives were interviewed with structural questionnaires. Result: 1) 28 families of cancer patients agreed that the prognosis should be disclosed, and over 44% of the families disagreed with that, and some even would not think of an appropriate time to notify the patients. Factor influencing their decisions to disclose the prognosis is mainly about their concern of raising stress on the patients' psychological and emotional aspects (90.9%). 2) Most families (62%) took an attitude of telling the news progressively. By looking at their attitudes, two aspects could be summarized, including telling indirectly and progressively, and to tell the truth under psychological counseling. 3) 66% interviewees were expecting the most appropriate notification by reliable doctors who are able to explain more clearly the health condition of patients. 4) From individual characteristics and the attitude towards prognosis disclosure, there are significant differences between the relationship of patients, families and their attitudes (P=0.02), and the relationship between family decision makers and their attitudes (P=0.03). Patients' spouses and their family decision makers inclined to notify the prognosis. Conclusion: Prognosis disclosure to patients is being accepted progressively by families. The result indicates that the approach used for revealing the prognosis is important, too. Having a complete plan and notifying in a holistic and caring way can strengthen the intention and confidence of the families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]