What questions should I ask my oncologist about Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Key Questions to Ask Your Oncologist About Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Based on NCCN Guidelines for NSCLC, here are the most important questions organized by topic. These will help you understand your diagnosis, treatment options, and what to expect.

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About Your Diagnosis & Testing

According to NCCN Guidelines, you should understand what tests you've had and what they mean:

1. What specific type of NSCLC do I have? (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell, large cell, or other)
2. What stage is my cancer, and what does that mean for my treatment?
3. Will enough biopsy tissue be removed for future testing? Where will my tissue be kept and for how long?
4. What genetic or molecular tests have been done on my tumor? (This is important because certain mutations—like EGFR, ALK, or BRAF—may open up targeted therapy options)
5. Do the tests have any risks, and how soon will I know the results?
6. How can I get a copy of my pathology report and other test results? Is there an online portal?

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About Your Treatment Options

NCCN Guidelines emphasize shared decision-making about treatment:

1. What are my treatment options? (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or combinations)
2. What will happen if I do nothing?
3. Are you suggesting options other than what NCCN recommends? If yes, why?
4. How do my age, overall health, and other factors affect my options?
5. Does any option offer a cure or long-term cancer control?
6. How long do I have to decide about treatment?

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About What to Expect During Treatment

Understanding the practical side of treatment helps you prepare:

1. How often will I need to come to the cancer clinic, and how long will treatment last?
2. What side effects should I expect, and how will they be managed?
3. How can I know if what I'm feeling is normal or if I need help?
4. Who should I contact with questions or concerns if the office is closed?
5. Will my care require any special arrangements like housing or a certain diet?
6. What may prevent me from getting the care I need?

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About Monitoring Your Progress

Knowing how your doctor will track your response to treatment is crucial:

1. How will you know if treatment is working? (imaging scans, blood tests, physical exams)
2. How often will we do imaging or other tests to check progress?
3. What are the chances of the cancer worsening or returning?
4. What follow-up care is needed after treatment?

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About Clinical Trials

NCCN Guidelines specifically recommend asking about clinical trials as an option:

1. Do you recommend that I consider a clinical trial for treatment?
2. How do I find clinical trials that I can participate in?
3. What are the treatments used in the clinical trial?
4. What are the risks and benefits of this treatment compared to standard options?
5. How long will I be in the clinical trial?
6. Will I be able to get other treatment if this doesn't work?
7. Will the clinical trial cost me anything?

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About Getting a Second Opinion

It's completely reasonable to seek another expert's perspective:

1. How do I get a second opinion?
2. Can you provide my records to another oncologist for review?
3. Is there a social worker or someone who can help me decide between options?

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Tips for Your Appointment

• Bring someone with you to take notes and help you remember information
• Write down your questions ahead of time so you don't forget them
• Ask your doctor to explain anything you don't understand—there are no "dumb" questions
• Request copies of all test results and reports for your own records
• Take notes or ask if you can record the conversation (with permission)

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