When cancer is diagnosed, it is sometimes difficult to know what questions to ask. The following is a list of general questions that may help in discussions with your doctor. You may need to ask more specific and detailed questions depending on your stage of disease and the recommended treatment.

c  What stage is my cancer, and what does that mean?

c  Has my cancer spread outside the original site (metastasized)? If so, where?

c  What type of treatment do you recommend, and why?

c  What are the risks and side effects associated with this type of treatment?

c  Are there any other treatment options for my cancer, and how do they differ from the chosen therapy?

c  How frequent are the treatments, and how long will they last?

c  Will the treatment affect my current lifestyle?

c  Will I have to have more than one type of treatment?

c  How should I expect to feel during and after treatment?

c  What side effects can I expect, and what side effects should I inform my doctor of immediately?

c  Is there any special diet I should follow before, during, or after treatment?

c  Will I need to limit any of my daily or recreational activities because of treatment?

c  What are the survival statistics for my cancer stage and this treatment choice?

c  If I am in pain and it is after hours, whom should I call for help?

c  What kind of follow-up will I need after my treatment is finished?

"Preparing for Your First Visit" - Table of Contents >>  Our Mission >>  Driving Directions, Transportation, and Maps >>  What to Bring to Your First Visit >>  Parking >>  Doctor - Patient Communication: A Two-way Street >>  What Questions Should I Ask My Doctor? >>  What is Cancer? >>  The Multidisciplinary Care Team >>  Telephone Numbers