Tests and Diagnosis
or how did people were informed about their cancer diagnosis - and what could have helped them
Receiving a diagnosis is a very crucial step but it is also emotionally overwhelming. Some people said it shacked their entire world. Yes, receiving a cancer diagnosis is tough but there are ways of how it can be easier.
Hear about how others have experienced this special day and what (would) have helped them.
Listen to how cancer survivors experienced it
Can you relate to it? How have you experienced it?
Words to know and use
Here you find some words that are often used when talking about examination and diagnosis. It is good to know them.
| Word in English | Explanation |
|---|---|
|
Cancer |
umbrella term for many different diseases that involve the uncontrolled and fast growth of body cells |
|
Oncology |
A medical field of specialty that involves the management, detection and prevention of all types of cancers |
|
Grade |
Describes the degree of normality or abnormality of cancer cells when observed under a microscope, the more abnormal the cells, the higher the grade. |
|
Stage |
This describes the extent of spread of cancer and growth in size. |
You can find more words in the glossary.
Which words have you heard and which words do you want use in your communication?
Facts to know
- Setting aside time to talk with the cancer patients not only about the clinical treatment but also their fears, help people to process it.
- Mastectomy is not the only/safest way of preventing breast cancer from coming back. Talk with your doctor about it.
–> Which fact do you want to share with your family/friends today?
Questions to ask
Here you find a list of questions that you can ask your health care provider.
- What do I have?
- What do I need to do?
- Why is it important for me that I do it?
–> Which fact do you want to share with your family/friends today?
Actions to take
- Bring a social support (friend/family members)
- Ask to record the conversation
- Prepare questions … (examples below)
- Ask if you could talk to someone who has experienced it before and can help you to learn about it
- Find a support group
- Allow yourself to feel all the feelings of grief
- Learn about coping strategies
-> What action do you want to take?