Receiving a diagnosis of RET-positive lung cancer can be overwhelming. It’s important to ask your healthcare provider the right questions to understand your diagnosis and treatment options. This guide will help you know what to ask, so you can make informed decisions about your care throughout your cancer journey.
Here is a list of important questions to ask your doctor if you have RET lung cancer. Getting accurate information, and sometimes a second opinion, can give you a better understanding of your specific lung cancer and the best treatment plan for you.
Understanding my Diagnosis
- How will having RET-positive lung cancer affect my body?
- What does it mean to have a RET gene mutation?
- How does RET-positive lung cancer differ from other types of lung cancer?
- Can my other medical conditions interfere with RET lung cancer?
Treatment Options
- What are my options for treating my RET lung cancer?
- What is targeted therapy, and how does it work for RET-positive lung cancer?
- Is radiation therapy right for me? How will this treatment affect my quality of life?
- Is a clinical trial right for me? Are there any clinical trials available for me?
- Is surgery an option for me? If so, what does it involve?
Managing Side Effects
- What side effects can I expect from treatment?
- How can I manage these side effects?
- Are there support services available for addressing my side effects?
Prognosis and Expectations
- How effective is my treatment protocol for my type and stage of cancer?
- What is my prognosis given my current treatment protocol?
- How might my prognosis change with new treatments or clinical trials?
- What factors can influence my prognosis?
Lifestyle and Support
- How will my diagnosis affect my day-to-day life?
- What lifestyle changes should I consider?
- Where can I find support groups?
- I am a smoker. Should I quit smoking?
Long-term Outlook and Follow-up
- What is my prognosis in the long-term?
- What follow-up care will I need?
- What are signs of recurrence I should watch for?
Financial Support
- Can I get financial assistance with medical bills?
- Is financial assistance available for the non-medical costs associated with my treatment, such as transportation, lodging, and home care?
Additional Considerations
- What other specialists should I see, like a nutritionist, physical therapist, or others?
- Are there any alternative or complementary therapies and/or treatment options that might help?
Asking questions is critical when dealing with a RET-positive lung cancer diagnosis. Always reach out to your healthcare provider and your care team with any concerns, and remember that support is available. Being proactive and staying informed can make a significant difference in your cancer journey after a lung cancer diagnosis.
