Talking To Your Doctor About Prostate Cancer
by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger
22 Feb 2007 08:09 PM
A diagnosis of prostate cancer can be frightening. The shock of the doctor's words may make you feel unsettled, nervous, or angry. You might not think to ask certain important questions -- I know my brain shuts down when I hear the word "cancer". The following list of questions may help you talk to your doctor about prostate cancer and what happens next.
- How reliable are the tests that gave you this diagnosis? What tests were used? A digital rectal exam? A prostate specific antigen (PSA) test?
- What stage is this cancer in? What does that mean -- is it in a treatable stage? Are different treatments available based on the stage?
- Is the cancer only in my prostate, or has it spread? What are the chances of it spreading to other organs? Will treatment help control/prevent the spread of cancer to other organs?
- What does each different treatment entail? Please explain the benefits and risks of each one.
- What does each different treatment cost?
- How do you decide which is the best course of action? How should I decide which one is best?
- How many different doctors will be involved in my treatment?
- How long will treatment take?
- Will I be able to continue working during treatment? Will any activities be restricted?
- Will I need special care during treatment?
- What happens if I choose to not treat the cancer at this time?
- What side effects come with each possible treatment option?
- What can we do to deal with potential side effects?
- What support groups are out there for men with prostate cancer? What about support for family members/spouses/caretakers?
- Am I a good candidate for clinical trials and experimental treatments? How do I find out more about them? What are the advantages and disadvantages?
You have the right to ask your doctor as many questions as you want! You may want to bring a friend or family member to the appointment to help take notes and keep track of questions and answers.
cancer,
men's health,
prostate,
prostate cancer
