Breast Cancer Questions (Cont.)

Questions to Ask Before Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer

You may want to ask your doctor these questions before receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer:
 
  • Why do I need chemotherapy?
  • What drugs do you recommend? How successful is this treatment for my type and stage of breast cancer?
  • What are the benefits and risks of taking these drugs?
  • Are there any research studies that I should consider?
  • How will we be sure that the drugs are working?
  • Where and how will I receive these drugs? Will someone stay with me during treatments?
  • How many treatments will I need, and how long will I be on chemotherapy?
  • What are the common side effects of these drugs and how can I manage them?
  • What side effects should I report to you?
  • Are there any restrictions? Will I be able to maintain my normal activities?
  • How should I prepare for the treatment?
  • Will I be able to drive myself home afterward?
  • Will there be long-term side effects? Will I need follow-up care?
  • What if I choose not to have chemotherapy?
     

Questions to Ask Before Hormonal Therapy for Breast Cancer

You may want to ask your doctor these breast cancer questions before undergoing breast cancer hormone treatment:
 
  • What benefit might I get from hormonal therapy?
  • Which would be better for me: hormone medication or surgery to remove my ovaries? Why?
  • What drug will I be taking? How will I know it is working?
  • What are the side effects and how can I manage them?
  • What side effects should I report to you?
  • How long will I be on hormonal therapy?
  • Will I need follow-up care?
  • What if I don't have hormonal therapy?
     
(Breast Cancer Questions Continued: Page 5)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD