Once a person has been diagnosed with cancer, it is natural to want to start treatment as quickly as possible. Often, the extra time needed to perform additional tests or obtain additional consultations may lead to anxiety that the delay will be harmful. It is important to understand, though, that taking the time needed for a thorough medical evaluation works to your advantage and does not hurt your chances of getting the best results from treatment. It is important to have all the facts before deciding on treatment options, and to avoid rushing the decision-making process without all of the required information.

There are, however, some exceptions. In cases where the cancer is causing life-threatening complications, treatment may need to start immediately. In the case of acute leukemia, or in situations where the tumor seems to be growing quickly, the doctor may need to give treatment as soon as possible. Therefore, it is important to talk about your condition with your doctor to learn when treatment should start. Read more about making decisions about cancer treatment.

Meeting with the health care team

The first part of the treatment process is for the doctor and other medical specialists to identify the type of cancer and determine whether it has spread to other parts of the body. This process is referred to as staging the cancer. It is also important for the doctor to evaluate any co-existing medical conditions (illnesses or problematic conditions that a person has along with cancer, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or depression) that may complicate treatment.

Treatment decisions often involve the opinions of a team of doctors who are experts in the fields of oncology, surgery, and radiation therapy. It is important that this health care team gather all the necessary information to make a decision about the best treatment options and the best approach for managing your cancer. Scheduling appointments with this team of doctors takes time.

Your treatment may not start the day or week the diagnosis is made. Factors that are taken into consideration when deciding on treatment include:

• The location of the cancer
  
  
• Whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body
  
  
• Your age and health condition
  
  
• Co-existing medical conditions
  
  
• Whether surgery or radiation therapy will be part of the treatment plan
  
  
• Your treatment preferences

To find out more about some of these factors, your doctor may need to perform additional tests and procedures. Your doctor will learn from these tests what type of treatment and how much is needed.

Once a diagnosis of cancer is made, it may be helpful to seek the knowledge and advice of more than one doctor. This is called a second opinion. Asking for a second opinion is common practice. Read more about seeking a second opinion.

Finding more information

During the time waiting to start treatment, learn as much as possible about the cancer and possible treatment options. Use these tips on finding more information:

• Keep an open line of communication with your doctor and the rest of your health care team. Get a list of questions to ask the doctor.
  
  
• Set realistic goals with your doctor and let him or her provide reassurance about the time frame in which treatment will be started. Continue to take an active role in your care throughout your treatment.
  
  
• The cancer types on Cancer.Net are a valuable resource to find out more information about a specific type of cancer and the treatment options available. The public library can also be a useful resource and may have reference books available about different types of cancer and their treatment. If an Internet connection is not available at home, public libraries often provide free access. There may also be literature available at the doctor's office or hospital about the type of cancer and available treatments. Ask the doctor or nurse for recommendations on websites and other resources for information. Read these tips on finding credible and reliable cancer information on the Internet, and get a list of patient information resources that may have specific information on the type of cancer.
  
  
• Support resources are available: learn how an oncology social worker can help and read about how to find a counselor. Ask a social worker if there is a support group available that is appropriate for your situation.
  
  
• Be prepared and learn as much information as possible about staying healthy during treatment. Talk with your doctor about maintaining a well-balanced diet before and during treatment and make sure to get plenty of rest. Read more about nutrition and cooking resources for people with cancer.

More Information

Newly Diagnosed: First Steps to Take

Tests and Procedures

Last Updated: May 04, 2009