10 Questions to Ask After You're Diagnosed with Breast Cancer
A diagnosis of breast cancer can be frightening, but it's important to take this advice from Debbie Saslow, PhD, director of breast and gynecologic cancer at the American Cancer Society. "It is OK to take a bit of time to let it sink in. Gather information, or get a second opinion. Most women have options about what the next step should be." Dr. Saslow stresses that women should ask about getting a second opinion on both the diagnosis and treatment plan.
What type of breast cancer do I have? What stage is it? Is it invasive? What lab tests were done on the tumor tissue and what did they show? Has my tumor spread to my lymph nodes? What are my treatment options for this type and stage of breast cancer? Do I have the option of lumpectomy plus radiation or mastectomy? What are the risks, benefits, side effects and complications of these treatments? How will they make me feel? Will I lose my hair? How long will the treatments take? How will I know if they are helping? Will any of these treatments cause premature menopause or infertility? Are there clinical trials available? Are they covered by insurance? What kind of support is available to me? Is there a social worker who can advise me on how to tell my employer about my cancer? I have young children. Will I need help around the house during my treatment?
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Create Date: 4/21/2008
Last Date Updated: 4/21/2008
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