For a newly diagnosed mesothelioma cancer patient, the thought of developing a treatment plan can be overwhelming and frightening. In addition, the patient’s family members will undoubtedly have questions and concerns of their own. The very best way to move forward following a cancer diagnosis is to compile a list of questions and sit down with your doctor and family members in an effort to find answers and move forward with a treatment plan that best meets the needs of the patient.
It is important to ask the right questions. Below is a brief list of queries that a newly diagnosed mesothelioma patient should ask their doctor:
How did I get mesothelioma cancer?
I know that there are different types of mesothelioma. Which type do I have?
Will I need additional tests to confirm my diagnosis?
I know that there are various stages of mesothelioma. At what stage is my cancer, and what will this mean as far as treatment and survival rates are concerned?
Has my cancer spread to other parts of my body?
Will I need to consult with a specialist or other type of doctor?
What are my mesothelioma treatment options? Is there a cure for mesothelioma cancer?
All of the questions above will help the patient and their doctor to gain a better understanding of what treatment methods may be the most successful, and having answers will empower the patient to make the very best choices.
The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center urges newly diagnosed mesothelioma sufferers to speak with their doctor, ask questions and include their family members in doctor-patient discussion.
The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center is certified by the Health On the Net Foundation (HON) as a credible source of medical information on the web and is a leading resource for information on asbestos exposure and mesothelioma cancer. For further information please visit www.maacenter.org.
