Do I need to start treatment right away?

 

Q: Do I need to start treatment right away?

A: A cancer diagnosis is scary, so many people want to begin treatment immediately--even the same day they hear the news. But usually cancer does not need such quick action. You have time to talk with your doctor, learn about your disease and its treatment options, seek a second opinion, and consider how to proceed. In addition, there may be further testing you should have to help determine the best treatment protocol. Taking a little time before treatment can also help you get over the shock of diagnosis and make plans for how to adjust your daily activities and responsibilities while you're receiving therapy.
--Bernice Crook, RN, OCN

Learn more by watching the helpful video The Cancer Talk Show: How to Choose Therapies.

This content was last reviewed August 15, 2010 by Dr. Reshma L. Mahtani.
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