hearing the diagnosis of “cancer” is quite simply a shock to the system. the first reaction is often panic followed by a tidal wave of emotions: “how can this be? ” “why me? ” “i’m scared and not able to handle this. ” but handle it you must. the following is a list of essential things that anyone newly diagnosed with cancer should know. 1. understand the diagnosis. there are many different types of cancer even within the same broad category. for example breast cancer has three general categories: hormone receptor positive (for the estrogen and/or progesterone receptors) her2 positive and triple negative (hormone receptors and her2 are negative or not present); the three types are often treated very differently. nearly every type of cancer has different sub-types and it is important to know which one you have. 2. do not jump the gun and think the worst. not all cancers of the same type act the same. some “bad” cancers may be curable. get all the facts straight and get them only from the experts who treat the disease not from physicians who are not cancer experts and not from well-meaning friends and family who “know someone with…” 3. meet first with local specialists. what other tests are needed to fully determine the stage or extent of the cancer in the body? do you need surgery chemotherapy and/or radiation? have these questions answered first in your community near where you live or work. physicians that specialize in treating cancer have been highly trained whether they practice in a community setting or at a large medical center. since cancer treatment may not be a one shot deal but can involve six months or more of therapy it is important to make these treatments as convenient and safe as possible. having a good cancer center close to home can make a world of difference. 4. consider a second opinion. the need for a second opinion depends on the quality of the first opinions you receive and on your preferences as a patient. do not think that the grass is greener elsewhere and that an incurable cancer is curable at a more heavily advertised center. if the cancer specialists in your area have an excellent reputation and you like their approach to you and your cancer then you may not feel that another opinion is necessary. on the other hand if you feel that surgery is better performed at a high volume center for example or you just want the peace of mind that comes with confirmation of treatment recommendations then a second opinion is right for you. the best doctors do not dissuade patients from seeking other opinions nor from receiving cancer care close to home when that is more convenient.
i’m newly diagnosed with cancer. what are some important things for me to know?