You may want to ask your doctor some of the following questions before you decide on your cancer treatment.

Questions about cancer treatment

• What treatment do you recommend? Why do you think it is best for me?
• What are the benefits and risks of each of these treatments?
• Would a clinical trial (research study) be right for me?
• How do I find out about studies for my type and stage of cancer?

Questions about surgery

• Is surgery an option for me?  If so, what kind of surgery do you suggest?
• How long will I stay in the hospital?
• If I have pain, how will it be controlled?

Questions about other types of treatment

• Where will I go for treatment?
• How is the treatment given?
• How long will each treatment session take?
• How many treatment sessions will I have?
• Should a family member or friend come with me to my treatment sessions?

Questions about side effects

• What are the possible side effects of the treatment?
• What side effects may happen during or between my treatment sessions?
• Are there any side effects that I should call you about right away?
• How can I prevent or treat side effects?

Questions about medicines and other products you might be taking

• Do I need to tell you about the medicines I am taking now?
• Should I tell you about dietary supplements (such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, or fish oil) that I am taking?
• Could any drugs or supplements change the way that cancer treatment works?

Source: For more information, visit the National Cancer Institute website.