It is important for people with cancer and their families to have honest, open discussions with their cancer care team. The cancer care team wants to answer all of these questions, no matter how trivial they might seem to the patient. For instance, people with esophageal cancer can consider these questions:

• What kind of esophageal cancer do I have?
• Has my cancer 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 treatment(s) do you recommend and why?
• Based on what you've learned about my cancer, what is my prognosis?
• What possible risks or side effects are there to the treatments you suggest?
• What are the chances of recurrence of my cancer with these treatment plans?
• What should I do to be ready for treatment?
• Will I have special nutritional needs due to the esophageal cancer?
• Where can I find more information and support?

You will no doubt have other questions about your personal situation. Be sure to write down your questions so that you remember to ask them during each visit with your cancer care team. Also keep in mind that doctors are not the only ones who can provide you with information. Other health care professionals, such as nurses and social workers, may have the answers you seek.

Revised: 08/04/2006