Learn about cancer, its causes, and its treatment.

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Cancer.Net's advisory panelists review content as part of the Cancer.Net Editorial Board. View the list below of medical, surgical, radiation, and pediatric oncologists, physician assistants, oncology nurses, social workers, and patient advocates that make up this advisory panel. Click on the advisory panelists' names below to view individual COI disclosures.

Cancer.Net Breast Cancer Advisory Panelists

Deborah Axelrod, MD, FACS
New York University Medical Center

Pamela J. DiPiro, MD
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute 

ASCO Answers is a collection of oncologist-approved patient education materials developed by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) for people with cancer and their caregivers. This series of fact sheets provides a one-page (front and back) introduction to a specific type of cancer or cancer-related topic. Each PDF document includes an overview of the subject, words to know, and questions to ask the health care team.

Cancer care and treatment can be expensive. And many people have unplanned expenses related to their care.

Finances can be a source of stress and anxiety, and the topic may feel overwhelming. Sometimes, costs keep people from completing cancer treatment. This increases health risks. It may also lead to more expenses in the future.

At some point during your cancer treatment or follow-up care, you may need to search for a new doctor. There are many reasons why you may need a new doctor. For example, if your doctor retires, if you or your doctor needs to move, if your health insurance changes, or if you do not feel like you and your health care team are a good fit.

Listen to the Cancer.Net Podcast: When the Doctor Says Cancer, adapted from this content.

Watch the Cancer.Net Video: When the Doctor Says Cancer, adapted from this content.

It is a situation people often fear: sitting in the doctor's office and hearing the word “cancer.” People diagnosed with cancer often say they were stunned when they heard the news and unable to process what was said afterward.

After you are diagnosed with cancer, you will need to choose the doctor who will manage your cancer care. You may continue seeing the doctor who diagnosed you with cancer or you might go to another specialist. Often, this doctor is an oncologist. Oncologists specialize in treating cancer.