If a physician tells you that you have cancer, this diagnosis can be a significant and even traumatic life event. You may have to make drastic lifestyle changes and endure different types of treatments.
According to that National Cancer Institute, approximately 39.5% of women and men in the U.S. will receive a cancer diagnosis at some point in their lifetime. Since cancer is such a common diagnosis, do your research to ensure you received the correct diagnosis before moving forward.
1. Know your medical history
Some types of cancer are genetic. Look into your family’s medical history to find out if a certain type of cancer is in your genes. Alert your physician about this history to help him or her make an informed decision.
2. Ask for a second opinion
If you feel like your diagnosis is not completely correct, seek a second opinion from another healthcare professional to prevent medical issues in the future. Having tests performed at different offices can allow you to compare results, especially if a lab error occurred.
3. Request specific tests
Ask your physician to carry out certain tests if you feel like her or she has not given your condition the right attention. Performing the correct medical tests early on can help you target the cancer earlier and faster.
Do not be afraid to ask your physician questions and aggressively seek answers. Knowing you have the correct diagnosis can help you take treatment steps that could effectively benefit your condition and your personal situation.