During your cancer treatments

Cancer treatments can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options can help you make informed decisions and feel more in control of your care. We’re here to support you every step of the way with reliable information and compassionate guidance throughout your cancer treatments

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Our team is here to listen and support you.

Making decisions on your cancer treatment therapy

There’s a lot of information to take in when your medical team is recommending cancer treatments. Understandably, your emotions are high, making it even more challenging. Your doctor will offer advice based on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, your general health, best practice guidelines, and your personal preferences.

It’s completely normal to feel everything is moving too quickly after a cancer diagnosis. Many people feel anxious to start treatment immediately, but often there will be time to process the information and make considered decisions. Your specialist can tell you how urgent your treatment is and, in many cases, taking some time to understand your options won’t affect the success of your treatment.

To feel more confident in your decisions, it can help to record your conversations with your doctor or bring a support person to appointments. They can take notes, ask questions, and provide emotional support.

Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need or seek a second opinion – this is a common practice that specialists understand and support. You might also want to explore the possibility of participating in clinical trials, which can provide access to new treatment approaches.

Questions you may have…

Will I need different types of cancer treatments at the same time?

Many people receive a combination of cancer treatments to give them the best possible outcome. For example, you might have surgery followed by radiation therapy treatment or receive chemotherapy alongside targeted therapies. Your treatment team will recommend the best combination for your specific situation and explain how different treatments work together to treat your cancer.

How do I know which cancer treatment therapy is right for me?

Your medical team will recommend treatments based on several key factors: the type and stage of your cancer, clinical guidelines for best practice, your general health, and your personal preferences. They’ll explain the benefits and possible side effects of each option, including radiation therapy treatment, to help you make an informed decision. Remember, you can always ask questions or seek a second opinion – this is a normal part of making treatment decisions.

What are the main side effects of radiation oncology treatment?

Effects after radiation treatment vary for each person. Common side effects may include fatigue and skin changes in the treated area. Some people experience very few effects, while others need more support managing them. Your radiation oncology team will explain what to expect based on your specific treatment plan and provide strategies to help manage any side effects. They’ll monitor you closely throughout your treatment and adjust your care plan if needed.

How long does cancer treatment usually take?

The length of treatment can vary quite a lot, depending on your situation. Some people might have surgery followed by a few weeks of radiation therapy treatment, while others may need several months of different therapies. Your treatment team will give you a timeline so you can plan but remember this may need to be adjusted based on how you respond to treatment. We’re here to support you throughout your entire treatment journey, however long it takes.

Have other questions? Talk to us.

Our team is here to listen and support you.