It is important for you to have frank, open discussions with your cancer care team. You should ask questions, no matter how minor you think they are. Some questions to consider:
- What type of breast cancer do I have? Does this affect my treatment options and prognosis (outlook)?
- Has my cancer spread to lymph nodes or internal organs?
- What is the stage of my cancer and what does that mean in my case?
- Are there other tests that need to be done before we can decide on treatment?
- What treatments are appropriate for me? What do you recommend? Why?
- How long will treatment last? What will it involve? Where will it be done?
- What are the risks or side effects that I should expect?
- Should I think about taking part in a clinical trial?
- What should I do to get ready for treatment?
- What are the chances my cancer might come back with the treatment programs we have discussed? What would we do if that happens?
- What is my expected prognosis, based on my cancer as you view it?
- What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?
Be sure to write down any questions you have that are not on this list. For instance, you might want information about recovery times so that you can plan your work schedule. Or you may want to ask about second opinions.
Feedback
