Oncologist-approved cancer information from the American Society of Clinical Oncology


Mesothelioma

This section has been reviewed and approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 11/09

Questions to Ask the Doctor

Questions to Ask the Doctor


Regular communication with your doctor is important in making informed decisions about your health care. Consider asking the following questions of your doctor:

  • What type of mesothelioma do I have?

  • Where exactly is the tumor located?

  • Can you explain my pathology report (laboratory test results) to me?

  • What is the stage of the cancer? What does this mean?

  • What treatment options are available?

  • What clinical trials are open to me?

  • What treatment do you recommend? Why?

  • What is the goal of this treatment?

  • What is my prognosis?

  • What are the possible side effects of this treatment, both in the short term and the long term?

  • How can I keep myself as healthy as possible during treatment?

  • In addition to treating my cancer, what can be done to treat my symptoms (such as pain medications or appetite stimulants)?

  • How will this treatment affect my daily life? Will I be able to work, exercise, and perform my usual activities?

  • If I’m worried about managing the costs related to my cancer care, who can help me with these concerns?

  • What follow-up tests will I need, and how often will I need them?

  • What support services are available to me? To my family?
 
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Last Updated: January 21, 2010