Questions to Ask the Doctor
Your health care team is there to help you cope with your cancer, so it is important to be as open with them as you possibly can. Make sure you understand everything your doctor tells you, and ask questions if you have any doubts or concerns. Some helpful questions to ask your doctor include:
- How far has the cancer spread?
- What treatments do you recommend?
- What should I expect as I go through treatment?
- What are the side effects of the treatments?
- Will my activity be limited? Can I continue to work?
- What can I do to help my body fight the cancer?
- For young women or women with a strong family history, ask if a genetic test or consultation is needed.
- Would you recommend participation in a clinical trial?
- What is the role of exercise and meditation?
- Will I need to see a pain control specialist?
- Is there anything else I need to know?
Reviewed by:
- Naoto T. Ueno, MD, PhD, FACP
Professor of Medicine
Nylene Eckles Distinguished Professor in Breast Cancer Research
Executive Director of Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic
Chief, Section of Translational Breast Cancer Research
Department of Breast Medical Oncology
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
- Anthony Lucci, Jr., MD
Associate Professor
Department of Breast Surgical Oncology
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
- Massimo Cristofanilli, MD, FACP
Associate Director for Precision Medicine and Translational Research
Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University
