Information provides answers to the many questions that inevitably arise about the diagnosis, treatment options, emotional support, and what to expect. Sometimes information is needed just to form the questions one needs to ask of the health care team. Obtaining Solid Information Solid information is important at a time like this. The health care team can give you guidance on how quickly a decision is needed. Most often, cancer is not an emergency.
Many people feel a sense of panic when they are told they have cancer.
It is important not to feel rushed to make a decision but to take the time to find the best information and think it through carefully. Having, and understanding, the facts can help the cancer survivor better care for him or herself, give a sense of self-confidence, and reduce anxiety. People generally want to be involved in their own care. Part of this is learning as much as they can about their cancer. The flip side of fact finding is there may be just too much information to take in at one time, especially at initial diagnosis.