Get the facts about your cancer diagnosis

Try to get as much basic, useful information as you can. This will help you to make decisions about your care.

Write down your questions and concerns. Bring them with you when you see your health care provider.

You may ask:

• What kind of cancer do I have?
• Where is the cancer?
• Has it spread?
• Can my cancer be treated?
• What is the chance that my cancer can be cured?
• What other tests or procedures do I need?
• What are my treatment options?
• How will the treatment benefit me?
• What can I expect during treatment?
• What are the side effects of the treatment?
• When should I call my health care provider?
• What can I do to prevent my cancer from coming back?
• How likely are my children or other family members to get cancer?
• What happens if I don't get treatment?

Consider bringing a family member or friend with you to your first few appointments. They can help you remember what you hear.

Think about how much you want to know about your cancer. Some people want all the facts and details. This helps them be part of the decision-making process. Others want to learn the basics and leave details and decisions to their health care providers. Think about which works best for you. Let your health care team know what you'd like.