Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Breast Cancer

It's common to feel intimidated in the doctor's office. Here are some questions that women should ask their doctors about breast cancer.

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If you're like most people, you're probably unsure of what questions to ask, or forget to ask what was topmost in your mind just hours before. That's why we've put together this list of questions to take with you to the doctor's office. To make it easier to remember what your doctor says, you should take notes or ask whether you can use a tape recorder. Sometimes it helps to have a family member or friend with you when you see your doctor -- to take part in the discussion, to take notes, or just to listen.

Questions to Ask About Mammography:

  • Do I need to have a mammogram? When? How often? If not, why not?
  • Is there anything in my background that indicates I should have mammograms more frequently than the general recommendations?
  • Where should I have my mammogram done?
  • Is there anything I should do to prepare for my mammogram?
  • What will the mammogram show?
  • Who gets the report of my mammogram? Can it also be sent to other doctors who treat me?
  • How long will it take to receive the mammography report?
  • What are the next steps if my mammogram detects a problem?

    Questions to Ask Before Treatment Begins:

  • What are my treatment choices?
  • What are the expected benefits of each kind of treatment?
  • What are the risks and possible side effects of each treatment?
  • Are new treatments under study? Would a clinical trial be appropriate for me?

    Questions to Ask Before Having Surgery:

  • What kinds of surgery can I consider?
  • Which operation do you recommend for me?
  • Is breast-sparing surgery followed by radiation therapy an option for me?
  • Do I need my lymph nodes removed? How many? Why?
  • How will I feel after the operation?
  • Where will the scars be? What will they look like?
  • If I decide to have plastic surgery to rebuild my breast, how and when can that be done?
  • Can you suggest a plastic surgeon?
  • Will I have to do special exercises?
  • When can I get back to my normal activities?

    Questions to Ask Before Having Radiation Therapy:

  • Why do I need this treatment?
  • What are the risks and side effects?
  • When will the treatments begin?
  • When will they end?
  • How will I feel during therapy?
  • What can I do to take care of myself during therapy?
  • Can I continue my normal activities?
  • How will my breast look afterward?
  • What are the chances of the tumor coming back in my breast?

    Questions to Ask About Chemotherapy or Hormonal Therapy:

  • Why do I need this treatment?
  • What drugs will I be taking?
  • What will they do?
  • Will I have side effects?
  • What can I do about them?
  • If I need hormonal treatment, which would be better for me, drugs or surgery?
  • How long will I be on this treatment?
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