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Understanding your treatment options

There are a number of different treatments that may be suitable for you, depending on the type and stage of your cancer.

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Treatment Options

What to expect from your treatment

Once you have been diagnosed with cancer, an important discussion needs to happen between you and your oncologist about the different treatment options that are available to you. While some patients may prefer not to know too much and would rather go ahead with what the oncologist recommends, others may find it helpful to prepare themselves for the journey ahead, and ask questions about the treatments that may be an option for them.

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Managing common side effects of treatment

Side effects are different for each person – some people have many, while others hardly have any. Knowing what to expect and look out for during treatment can help you prepare for any physical or emotional changes. If anything is unclear, please do not hesitate to ask your oncologist or a member of staff to get the advice you need.

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Questions to ask your doctor about your treatment

When you meet with your doctor or other members of your health care team, you will hear a lot of information. It can help to think ahead of time of things you want to know and to take a list of questions with you to your appointments.

Possible questions

  • What ways can my type and stage of cancer be treated?
  • What benefits and risks are associated with of each of these treatments?
  • What treatment would you recommend for me, and why do you think it is best?
  • When will I need to start my treatment?
  • Do I have to be in the hospital for my treatment? If so, for how long?
  • What are my chances of recovery with my treatment?
  • How do we know or confirm that the treatment is working?
  • Might some type of clinical trial (research study) be right for me?
  • How do I research and discover studies for my type and stage of cancer?
  • Do I need a specialist or specialists for my cancer treatment?
  • If I would like a second opinion about the best treatment plan for me, can you help me to find one?
  • Where will I go for my treatment?
  • How will my treatment be given?
  • How long will each treatment session take?
  • How many sessions of treatment will I have?
  • Should/can someone come with me to my treatment sessions?
  • What possible side effects might I experience with my treatment?
  • What side effects could occur during or in between my treatment sessions?
  • Are there certain side effects that I should call you about straight away?
  • Are there any lasting side effects from my type of treatment?
  • Will my ability to have children be affected by this treatment?
  • How can I prevent or manage any side effects that occur?
  • Should I tell you about any medications I'm taking now?
  • Should I tell you about any dietary supplements (vitamins, herbs, minerals or fish oils) that I’m taking?
  • Are there any drugs or supplements that might change the way that treatment works?

Your fertility during cancer treatment

Cancer treatment can affect fertility in both men and women, but there are ways to mitigate these effects when you undergo your treatment.

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Further information

Contact the central customer service centre on

[email protected] or 0860 NETCARE (0860 638 2273)

Please note that the centre operates on weekdays between 08:00 and 16:00.