When facing a cancer diagnosis, the hardest questions are often the most important ones.

It is okay to ask direct questions. It is okay to ask for clarity. It is okay to ask about prognosis and quality of life.

• What stage is the cancer and how was it determined?
• Is this cancer considered curable, treatable, or primarily palliative?
• What is the goal of treatment — cure, control, or comfort?
• What is the realistic prognosis with and without treatment?

• What are the standard treatment options?
• What are the benefits and risks of each option?
• What is the expected survival benefit from this treatment?
• How will treatment affect quality of life?
• What side effects should we expect?
• How might treatment affect immune function?
• Are there less aggressive options?
• What happens if we choose not to proceed with this treatment?
• At what point does treatment shift from curative to supportive?
• Would you recommend this treatment if this were your own family member?

• How will we know if treatment is working?
• What signs should we watch for that require urgent care?
• When do we reassess the plan?

• Are there clinical trials available?
• What evidence supports those trials?
• How do alternative approaches compare in terms of evidence and risk?

• How will treatment affect daily life?
• What support services are available?
• What should we prepare for physically and emotionally?

Cancer care often prioritizes immediate medical intervention. Families may also want to ask about long-term strength, nutrition, and overall physical resilience during treatment.

• Are there safe ways to support overall health during treatment?
• What nutritional strategies are appropriate for this specific diagnosis?
• How can strength and immune resilience be supported safely?
• Would it be appropriate to consult a licensed nutrition professional outside the hospital system?
• How can different providers coordinate safely?

It is normal to feel overwhelmed. Bring a notebook. Bring a trusted person. Ask for explanations in plain language.

Clear information helps families make informed decisions aligned with their values.

It is appropriate to ask about supportive care beyond standard treatment plans.

While oncology teams focus primarily on medical treatment, families may also wish to consider broader aspects of overall health and resilience.

Some families choose to consult independent, licensed nutrition professionals or integrative health practitioners in addition to their oncology team. If doing so, ensure they are properly credentialed and experienced in working alongside cancer treatment, and that communication between providers is transparent.