Oncology is the study of tumors and cancers. A medical oncologist is the main physician in your breast cancer treatment. This doctor diagnoses and coordinates your cancer care. He/she may use chemotherapy and various other therapies to treat your cancer. Check your doctor’s credentials to confirm he/she is board certified in medical oncology. Medical oncologists should be available to patients at all times, day and night. Your medical oncologist should be a phone call away. See Choose a Doctor.
Answer all your oncologist’s questions truthfully to optimize your breast cancer treatment.
The following are basic questions to ask:
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- Why do you recommend this treatment for my specific breast cancer?
- Please describe the risks.
- How many times have you treated patients with my diagnosis?
- What are the percentages that this treatment will
- cure my cancer?
- Are there other ways to treat my cancer?
- How many physicians will be involved in my cancer treatment?
- Where will I receive my chemotherapy?
- How long is each chemotherapy treatment session?
- How many weeks will my cancer treatment last and how often will I be treated?
- Will I be able to drive home from each treatment?
- What are the side effects of each treatment?
- Will there be a physician available to contact at all
- times?
- Will my hair fall out and, if so, will it grow back?
- Will I experience premature menopause or infertility?
- What lifestyle changes should I make during chemotherapy?
- Should I get a second opinion?
For more comprehensive questions, go to:
