Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Colorectal Cancer

Asking the right questions can help patients and caregivers better understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and overall care. Here’s a detailed list of questions with explanations for what each question addresses and why it’s important.

1. Questions About the Diagnosis

A. Understanding the Diagnosis

• What type of colorectal cancer do I have?
  • Explanation: Most colorectal cancers are adenocarcinomas, but there are rarer types like mucinous or signet-ring cell carcinomas. Knowing the type helps guide treatment.
• What stage is my cancer, and what does it mean?
  • Explanation: The stage (0-IV) indicates how advanced the cancer is, whether it has spread, and informs the treatment plan and prognosis.
• Are there any specific genetic or molecular markers involved in my cancer?
  • Explanation: Markers like KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, or MSI status affect treatment options, including eligibility for targeted or immunotherapies.
• Has the cancer spread to lymph nodes or other organs?
  • Explanation: Determines the extent of the disease and guides treatment planning.
• What symptoms should I expect as the cancer progresses or during treatment?
  • Explanation: Prepares you for potential physical or emotional changes and helps in planning supportive care.

2. Questions About Diagnostic Tests

A. Tests Performed

• What tests were done to confirm the diagnosis?
  • Explanation: Understanding the role of colonoscopy, biopsy, and imaging tests helps clarify the diagnostic process.
• What did the biopsy results show?
  • Explanation: The pathology report provides critical information about the cancer type, grade, and molecular characteristics.
• Do I need additional imaging tests (CT, MRI, PET scans)?
  • Explanation: Imaging may be necessary to check for metastases or refine staging.
• What is the accuracy of these tests, and could I need them repeated?
  • Explanation: Helps understand the reliability of tests and whether further confirmation is necessary.

3. Questions About Treatment Options

A. Treatment Plan

• What are the recommended treatment options for my stage of cancer?
  • Explanation: Ensures you understand all available treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
• What is the goal of each treatment?
  • Explanation: Clarifies whether the goal is curative, palliative, or to prevent recurrence.
• What are the pros and cons of each treatment option?
  • Explanation: Helps weigh the benefits and risks of various treatments.
• What happens if the initial treatment doesn’t work or if the cancer comes back?
  • Explanation: Prepares you for contingency plans, including second-line therapies or clinical trials.

B. Surgery

• Will I need surgery, and if so, what type?
  • Explanation: Different surgeries (e.g., colectomy, proctectomy) are used based on the tumor’s location and size.
• Will I need a colostomy or ileostomy, and is it permanent?
  • Explanation: Knowing whether a stoma is necessary helps prepare for lifestyle changes.
• How long will recovery take, and what restrictions will I have?
  • Explanation: Helps plan for post-surgery care and returning to normal activities.

C. Chemotherapy

• Which chemotherapy drugs will be used, and how are they administered?
  • Explanation: Knowing the regimen (e.g., FOLFOX, CAPOX) helps anticipate side effects and scheduling.
• What are the potential short-term and long-term side effects of chemotherapy?
  • Explanation: Understanding side effects aids in planning supportive care.
• Can I receive oral chemotherapy, or will I need IV infusions?
  • Explanation: Determines the convenience and logistics of treatment.

D. Radiation Therapy

• Is radiation therapy necessary for my cancer, and if so, why?
  • Explanation: Radiation is often used for rectal cancer or to shrink tumors before surgery.
• What side effects should I expect from radiation therapy?
  • Explanation: Helps prepare for potential skin irritation, fatigue, and bowel changes.

E. Targeted and Immunotherapy

• Am I eligible for targeted therapies or immunotherapies?
  • Explanation: Eligibility depends on genetic markers like KRAS, NRAS, or MSI status.
• What are the benefits and risks of these therapies?
  • Explanation: Helps evaluate newer treatment options.

F. Clinical Trials

• Are there any clinical trials available for my type and stage of cancer?
  • Explanation: Clinical trials may offer access to cutting-edge treatments.
• What are the risks and benefits of participating in a trial?
  • Explanation: Ensures informed decision-making about experimental treatments.

4. Questions About Managing Side Effects

• What side effects should I expect, and how severe might they be?
  • Explanation: Understanding side effects helps you prepare mentally and physically.
• How can I manage nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, or other side effects?
  • Explanation: Provides strategies for improving quality of life during treatment.
• Will treatment affect my ability to work, travel, or exercise?
  • Explanation: Helps plan your daily life around treatment.

5. Questions About Emotional and Psychological Support

• How can I manage the emotional impact of this diagnosis and treatment?
  • Explanation: Identifies resources for mental health support, such as counseling or support groups.
• Are there local or online support groups for colorectal cancer patients?
  • Explanation: Connects you with others going through similar experiences.

6. Questions About Long-Term Care and Follow-Up

• What is the likelihood of recurrence, and how will it be monitored?
  • Explanation: Helps set expectations and understand follow-up care.
• What follow-up tests or screenings will I need after treatment?
  • Explanation: Ensures early detection of recurrence or complications.
• How will treatment affect my long-term health?
  • Explanation: Prepares you for potential late effects, such as infertility or secondary cancers.

7. Questions About Lifestyle and Nutrition

• Are there dietary changes I should make during and after treatment?
  • Explanation: Nutrition plays a significant role in managing symptoms and supporting recovery.
• Can I exercise during treatment, and what activities are safe?
  • Explanation: Helps maintain physical fitness while minimizing risks.
• What precautions should I take to avoid infections or complications?
  • Explanation: Helps protect your immune system during treatment.

8. Questions About Financial and Logistical Concerns

• What costs should I expect, and what is covered by insurance?
  • Explanation: Prepares you for financial planning and identifying coverage gaps.
• Are there resources for financial assistance or travel support?
  • Explanation: Ensures access to care without financial strain.
• Who can I contact for questions about scheduling, medications, or emergencies?
  • Explanation: Clarifies your care team’s roles and contact points.

Final Note

These questions help ensure that you are fully informed about your diagnosis, treatment, and care. Bring a trusted friend or family member to appointments to take notes and provide support. Advocate for yourself by asking questions until you feel confident in your understanding of your care plan.

Have questions? Not sure where to go from here? See Wellnest's guide for the Diagnostic Process for Colorectal Cancer, Treatment Options for Colorectal Cancer, Managing Side Effects of Colorectal Cancer Treatment, and Must-Have Items for Going Through Treatment.