Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. Amidst the flurry of emotions and medical appointments, it’s crucial for you to arm yourself with knowledge to make informed decisions about their treatment and care.
Here we will explore 5 steps to be informed about your treatment plan and situation, so you can be empowered and have a sense of control!
- Understand your diagnosis
Often, a cancer diagnosis encompasses a variety of details that make your cancer individualized to you. Therefore, it is important to read articles and literature pertaining to your specific case, so you can have a better understanding of what’s going on. Understanding the characteristics of your cancer can also help you ask informed questions during medical appointments and make decisions that align with your goals and values.
Resources to check out:
- American Cancer Society resources
- What is cancer?: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/understanding-cancer/what-is-cancer.html
- Cancer types: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types.html
- Cancer Glossary: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/understanding-cancer/glossary.html
- National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/
- Understanding cancer types: https://www.cancer.gov/types
- WebMD Cancer Resource Center: https://www.webmd.com/cancer/default.htm
- Explore Treatment Options
Listening to your doctor and care team is the most important thing when looking at treatment options, as they know your condition best. However, it can also be beneficial to understand the recommended treatment options yourself, so you can get a better understanding of what side effects to expect and your prognosis.
Research different treatment modalities available for your type of cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Each treatment option comes with its benefits, risks, and potential side effects. Consider discussing treatment alternatives with your healthcare team and seeking second opinions to ensure you’re making well-informed decisions.
Resources to check out:
- American Cancer Society resources
- Treatment Types: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/treatment-types.html
- Making Treatment Decisions: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/making-treatment-decisions.html
- Personal Health Manager: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/making-treatment-decisions/personal-health-manager.html
- Investigate Clinical Trials
Especially if you have been diagnosed with a rarer cancer or at a later stage, mainstream treatments might not be reaching the prognosis you desire. Clinical trials play a crucial role in advancing cancer treatment and may offer access to cutting-edge therapies not yet available to the general public. Explore ongoing clinical trials relevant to your cancer diagnosis and eligibility criteria. Remember to always discuss the possibility of participating in a clinical trial with your healthcare provider to determine if it’s a suitable option for you.
A great resource to check out: https://clinicaltrials.gov/
- Keep Communication Open
Effective communication with your healthcare team is key to ensuring you receive optimal care throughout your cancer treatment. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, express concerns, or seek clarification about any aspect of your diagnosis or treatment plan. Keep a journal or notebook to document important information discussed during medical appointments, including treatment options, side effects, and follow-up care instructions.
- Establish a Supportive Network
Navigating the world of cancer research can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Build a supportive network of friends, family, and healthcare professionals who can assist you in your research journey.
CanSER can help with this! We provide personalized, one-on-one support so you can speak with another survivor who went through a similar experience. Speaking with a peer who understandings the stress associated with dealing with the magnitude of cancer is proven to alleviate worry and help you through this journey.
Learn more about how you can connect with a Cancer Concierge today! https://can-ser.org/support/
Conducting research after a cancer diagnosis empowers you to actively participate in your treatment decisions and advocate for your health. Remember, knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight against cancer, and arming yourself with information can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.