The terminology is new and may be confusing, and anxiety makes understanding and grasping subtleties all the more difficult. By having a Checklist they will be able to fill in what they may have missed. This will enable them to have a more comprehensive discussion. Without doubt, there are side effects that one will not want, yet understanding why a specific treatment is being used and how it may help makes it easier to accept the risk. Furthermore, understanding that many of the complications and side effects are reversible will also help.
Many people are more afraid of chemotherapy than of cancer.
The toxicity of chemotherapy varies from one drug regimen to another. There are many effective treatments for reducing the side effects. Cancer and cancer treatment are frightening but understanding of what is happening and why and being active in the decision and treatment process help the patient retain a sense of control, which is very important. At times there are options to chemotherapy as there are to radiation and surgery. Understanding why a treatment is recommended is important in deciding what to do.