Such studies, called clinical trials , are designed to improve the treatment of this type of cancer. These studies are discussed in the Treatment Studies section. Many patients want to learn all they can about their disease and their treatment choices so they can take an active part in decisions about their medical care. Patients have many important questions about their health, and the doctor is the best person to answer them. Most people want to know the extent of their cancer, how it can be treated, how effective the treatment is likely to be, and how much it is expected to cost.
Many people find it helpful to make a list of their questions before they see the doctor.
Taking notes can make it easier to remember what the doctor says. There is a lot to learn about cancer and its treatment. Patients do not need to ask all their questions or remember all the answers at one time. They will have other chances to ask the doctor to explain things and to get more information.