Understanding the Diagnosis
When a loved one receives a cancer diagnosis it can be very overwhelming. You may feel a range of emotions that make it difficult for you to communicate. While you want to help and support your loved one right away, sorting out your feelings may take time. The key to taking control of your situation starts with understanding the diagnosis. Use this information to help guide you through your loved one’s cancer journey.
Get the Facts
Start by keeping a notebook. Use this notebook to keep track of all the information related to your loved one’s diagnosis and treatment. Before each doctor’s visit, do any research you feel is appropriate, and write down what you’ve learned as well as questions and concerns you may have. Plan to go with your loved one on doctor appointments and bring your notebook with you. During the visit, jot down as much information as you can, even the most basic information, as people tend to forget things after leaving the doctor’s office. Questions you may want to discuss with the doctor, assuming you have your loved one’s consent include:
- What kind of cancer is it?
- Where is it located?
- What are the treatment options?
- Are there alternative treatment options to consider?
- What are possible side effects of treatment and how can they be managed?
- Are there support groups my loved one can get involved with?
- Will my loved one be able to continue working while undergoing treatment?
Cancer Staging
Staging is the process a physician uses to learn the extent of the cancer, and to determine if the disease has spread. Knowing the stage helps the physician choose the best possible treatment for the disease.
Physicians now use the TNM classification system as a tool to stage their patients’ cancers. The T, N, and M categories are each based on a number of criteria.
Cancer Grade
A pathologist determines a cancer grade by comparing cancer cells to normal cell samples. The cancer grade is an indication of just how different the cells appear under a microscope compared to healthy, normal cells. The more abnormal the cells, the higher grade assigned to the cancer. The code ranges from lowest (Grade I), which means the cells resemble normal cells, through the highest (Grade III ), which indicates the cancer cells do not resemble normal, healthy cells. The grade of the tumor and staging of the cancer are both considered when determining the best course of treatment.
