As you cope with cancer and cancer treatment, we encourage you to talk openly with your doctor, nurse, and cancer care team. You should feel free to ask any question that's on your mind, no matter how small it might seem. Here are some questions you might want to ask. Be sure to add your own questions as you think of them. Nurses, social workers, and other members of the treatment team may also be able to answer many of your questions.

• Where is my tumor located?
• How likely is this tumor to grow or spread quickly?
• Has my tumor spread beyond the primary site?
• What is the stage of my cancer and what does that mean in my case?
• What treatment choices do I have?
• What do you recommend and why?
• What risks or side effects are there to the treatments you suggest?
• How would treatment affect my daily activities?
• What are the chances my cancer will come back with these treatment plans? What would we do if this happens?
• What should I do to be ready for treatment?
• Should I follow a special diet?
• Will my insurance plan pay for the cost of all of the treatments that are recommended?

In addition to these sample questions, be sure to write down some of your own. For instance, you might want more information about second opinions or about clinical trials for which you may qualify.

Last Medical Review: 05/11/2009
Last Revised: 05/11/2009