If you or a family member have just been diagnosed with cancer, the questions that run through the mind are often a blur. Below is a list of questions from the American Cancer Society that provides a solid foundation of knowledge for you to review with your doctor(s).
This is just a starting point. Keep an ongoing list of your own questions (such as how your recovery program will impact your work environment or schedule, your need for a second opinion, or the potential for a clinical trial as a treatment option) and bring them with you on each visit. More than one meeting with your doctor may be necessary to cover all of your concerns. No question is too small or trivial. Having a family member write down the answers or tape record the meeting(s) is very helpful for reviewing and comprehending the large amount of complicated information you will receive.
Remember that while information is an important weapon against cancer, people differ in the amount of information they want or need throughout the stages of diagnosis and treatment. If you feel your doctor is not providing enough information, ask more questions and do more research on your own to prompt additional questions and clarifications. Likewise, tell your doctor if you feel you are overwhelmed with too much information. You may want to come back and review the information again later.
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