What questions should I ask my oncologist about Endometrial Cancer

Important Questions to Ask Your Endometrial Cancer Oncologist

I'm glad you're preparing for your conversations with your care team. Asking informed questions is one of the most important things you can do to take an active role in your treatment. Here are key questions organized by topic:

ABOUT YOUR DIAGNOSIS & PATHOLOGY

1. What type and stage of endometrial cancer do I have? (This determines treatment options significantly)
2. What does my pathology report show? (Ask them to explain the grade, histology type, and any molecular findings)
3. Has my tumor been tested for specific biomarkers or mutations? (Such as MMR/MSI status, POLE mutations, or other molecular characteristics)
4. What do these test results mean for my treatment options?

ABOUT TREATMENT PLANNING

1. What is the standard treatment approach for my specific type and stage of endometrial cancer?
2. Am I a candidate for surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, or immunotherapy—and in what combination?
3. If surgery is recommended, what type of procedure are you recommending and why?
4. What are the goals of my treatment? (Cure, disease control, symptom management, or a combination?)
5. What is the expected timeline for my treatment?

ABOUT MOLECULAR TESTING & PERSONALIZED MEDICINE

1. Should I have comprehensive genomic testing (whole exome sequencing or multi-gene panel testing) done on my tumor tissue? This can identify mutations that may respond to targeted drugs or immunotherapy.
2. Are there any clinical trials available for my specific cancer type and molecular profile? (Your oncologist can help, or you can search ClinicalTrials.gov)
3. Based on my tumor's molecular characteristics, are there targeted therapy options I should consider?

ABOUT SIDE EFFECTS & QUALITY OF LIFE

1. What side effects should I expect from my recommended treatment?
2. How will these side effects be managed?
3. Will treatment affect my ability to work, exercise, or do daily activities?
4. Are there supportive care options (nutrition, exercise, mental health support) that could help me tolerate treatment better?

ABOUT MONITORING & FOLLOW-UP

1. How will we monitor my response to treatment? (Imaging, blood tests, physical exams, etc.)
2. What is the follow-up schedule after treatment ends?
3. What symptoms should I report immediately if they develop?
4. If my cancer recurs or progresses, what options would be available?

ABOUT YOUR CARE TEAM & RESOURCES

1. Who is the "quarterback" coordinating my care? (It's helpful to have one primary oncologist overseeing everything)
2. Should I see other specialists? (Gynecologic oncologist, radiation oncologist, genetic counselor, etc.)
3. Are there patient support resources, support groups, or counseling services available?
4. Can you provide me with written summaries of my diagnosis, treatment plan, and test results?

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WHY THESE QUESTIONS MATTER

According to the CancerPatientLab webinars on molecular approaches to cancer care, getting comprehensive testing and understanding your tumor's specific characteristics is increasingly important. As discussed in "Molecular Integrative Oncology: In Addition to – Not instead of – Conventional Oncology Treatment" (William LaValley, MD), modern cancer care benefits from:

• Multiple perspectives on your cancer through different types of testing (genomic, proteomic, and other "omics" approaches)
• Three-month evaluation cycles where your response to treatment is assessed, and adjustments are made based on how you're tolerating and responding to therapy
• Validation of findings through different testing methods to confirm what treatments might work best for YOUR specific tumor

The webinar "Feedback on My 17 Treatment Options" (Brian McCloskey) emphasizes that understanding the evidence behind treatment recommendations—whether they're based on population statistics or your personalized molecular data—helps you make informed decisions.

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PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

Before your visit:

• Write down your questions in advance
• Bring a notebook or recording device (ask permission first)
• Bring a trusted family member or friend to help listen and take notes
• Gather any previous [ID removed] or test results

During your visit:

• Don't hesitate to ask your oncologist to explain things in simpler terms if needed
• Ask for written materials or resources to review at home
• Request copies of all test results and pathology reports
• Clarify next steps and timelines before you leave

After your visit:

• Review your notes and any written materials provided
• Write down any follow-up questions that come to mind
• Don't wait until your next appointment—call with urgent questions

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