Such studies, called clinical trials , are designed to improve cancer treatment. 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. People with cancer have many questions and concerns about their health. The doctor is the best one to answer them. Most patients want to know the extent of their cancer, how it will be treated, how successful the treatment is likely to be, and how much it will cost.
Many people find it helpful to make a list of questions before they see the doctor.
Taking notes can make it easier to remember what the doctor says. There's a lot to learn about cancer and its treatment. Patients should not feel that they need to understand everything the first time they hear it. They will have many chances to ask the doctor to explain things that are not clear. Planning Treatment Treatment decisions are complex.