Just diagnosed with Liver Cancer — what should I do first

First Steps After a Liver Cancer Diagnosis

I'm sorry you've received this diagnosis. Here's what you should prioritize in these early days:

IMMEDIATE ACTIONS (First 1-2 Weeks)

1. Assemble Your Healthcare "Quarterback" Find one trusted person—a family member, close friend, or advocate—who will help coordinate your care. This person should be organized, a good communicator, and able to attend appointments with you. According to the resources from Let's Win, this support person is essential because they'll help you:

• Communicate with all your doctors and specialists
• Take notes during appointments
• Help you understand your options
• Provide emotional support through treatment

2. Get a Second Opinion at a Specialized Center Don't rush into treatment at your first hospital. The American Cancer Society and Let's Win emphasize that patients have better outcomes when treated by specialists who focus on their specific cancer type.

For liver cancer, seek evaluation at a major academic medical center with hepatology (liver specialist) expertise. Most people live within 1-2 hours of a major research center. Even if you receive most treatment locally, an initial consultation with a liver cancer expert is crucial.

**3. Gather Your [ID removed] Collect and organize:

• Pathology reports (what type of liver cancer is it?)
• Imaging scans (CT, MRI, ultrasound)
• Lab results
• Any biopsies or tissue samples

These will be needed for second opinions and treatment planning.

CRITICAL TESTING YOU NEED

Genetic and Molecular Testing According to NCCN Guidelines and Let's Win resources, all cancer patients should ask about genetic testing and molecular profiling of their tumor. This means:

• Testing your tumor's DNA to identify mutations
• Understanding what's driving YOUR specific cancer
• Identifying targeted treatments or clinical trials you may qualify for

Ask your doctor: "Has my tumor been tested for genetic mutations? Can we do molecular profiling?"

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR ONCOLOGY TEAM

1. What type and stage of liver cancer do I have? (This determines treatment options)
2. Has my tumor been genetically tested? If not, why not?
3. What are my treatment options? (Surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation, or combinations)
4. Am I a candidate for clinical trials? Major cancer centers have trials that may offer newer options
5. What is your experience treating liver cancer? (You want someone who treats it regularly)
6. Who should I call with urgent questions? (Get direct contact information)
7. What support services are available? (Nutritionists, social workers, patient advocates, support groups)

INSURANCE & LOGISTICS

• Contact your insurance company to understand coverage and find in-network specialists at major centers
• Find a patient advocate through your insurance or organizations like the American Cancer Society
• Explore disability benefits if you're working—a cancer diagnosis often qualifies you
• Review your coverage for deductibles and out-of-pocket costs

WHAT NOT TO DO

❌ Don't accept the first treatment recommendation without exploring options ❌ Don't delay getting a second opinion (there's almost always time unless it's an emergency) ❌ Don't skip genetic testing ❌ Don't go through this alone—build your support team now

RELIABLE RESOURCES FOR LIVER CANCER INFORMATION

• NCCN Guidelines (National Comprehensive Cancer Network) - the standard of care guidelines
• American Cancer Society - patient education and support services
• National Cancer Institute (NCI) - clinical trial information and research updates
• ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) - treatment guidelines

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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.

Your diagnosis is serious, but you have options. Taking time in these first weeks to build your team, get expert evaluation, and understand your specific cancer will put you in the best position for treatment decisions.