Learning as much as you can about your cancer is important.? The more you know, the more you will feel in control of your health care and well being.? Asking questions, reading articles and books, and talking to people with a similar cancer diagnosis will? help you feel "in the know."? ?

Your doctor will? share? a lot? of information about your type of cancer, as well as available treatment options.? But, you may have remaining questions.? You should always feel comfortable following up with? your doctor or nurse.? In addition, cancer-related Web sites host? a wealth of information about the disease and existing support services.? When searching the Internet, be aware some sites may have inaccurate or outdated information.? Click on the? Resources? section? to find links to patient advocacy groups with trustworthy and helpful information.?

Making the Most of Your Visit to the Doctor

Before each appointment, write down a list of questions you would like to ask your doctor.? This? will help make the most of your limited time together.? It will also help you stay focused on what is concerning you most.? A list of questions you may want to ask are below.? ? ? Remember, don't be embarrassed to ask any questions that you may have.? Your doctor has your best interests at heart and wants you to be as informed as possible.?

Questions to Ask Your Health Care Team

1. What are all the treatment options for my type of cancer?
2. Should I consider participating in a clinical trial?
3. Is a targeted therapy or medicine appropriate for my tumor type?
4. What are the side effects of cancer treatments used to treat my form of cancer?? Are there ways to manage or prevent these side effects?
5. Will the treatment be painful? If so, is there anything you can do to help me deal with the pain?
6. How long will I have to go through treatment?
7. How long will it take for me to feel better?
8. Will I have to stay in the hospital?
9. When can I get back to my normal daily activities?
10. Will I have to eat different foods now that I have cancer?
11. Can I still exercise?
12. Can I have a copy of my records and tests?

Print a copy of the Questions to Ask Your Health Care Team and bring it with you to your doctor's visits and treatment sessions.?