Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Cancer?

Cancer is when a group of cells in your body grow out of control. We do not understand what causes this to happen. This can occur in just one area or can spread to other areas of your body.

2. What causes cancer?

No one knows for sure. Some people may be more likely to have abnormal cells in their bodies due to family heredity. Or it can be caused by something you have been exposed to in the world.

3. Can we get cancer from what we eat?

It is thought that eating foods high in fat and low in fiber may cause cancer in some people.

4. Does smoking cause cancer?

Yes. Cigarettes cause 95% of cancers in the lung. Smoking can also affect cancers of the bladder, pancreas, mouth, throat, and kidneys.

5. I was told I have cancer, what can I do?

You can make a second appointment with your doctor to learn more about your cancer. Write down your questions so you don't forget what you want to ask the doctor.

6. What questions should I ask my doctor?

You can ask the doctor to explain your cancer so you understand it better.
You can ask the doctor what choices you have to treat the cancer.
You can also ask the doctor how soon you should start your treatment and how long the treatment will last.

7. How is cancer treated?

There are three main treatment choices. Surgery to have the abnormal cells taken out, radiation, special x-rays to kill abnormal cells and/or chemotherapy, taking medicines that kill the cancer cells. Your doctor can let you know what choices he/she thinks are best for you.

8. Should I get a second opinion?

There are many reasons to get a second opinion. You might not agree with the cancer diagnosis. Or you might not agree with the doctor's treatment choice. You may want to talk to a specialist who deals with your type of cancer.

9. What causes fatigue?

Fatigue can be caused by many reasons. One cause could be that you have low red blood cells (anemia). There are ways to raise your level and improve how you feel. Ask your doctor. Fatigue may also be due to radiation treatments. Feeling this type of weakness can occur after the second or third week of radiation treatments and can last up to three months after the radiation treatments are over. Some people may feel weak while taking their chemotherapy medicines.

10. How does fatigue affect a person?

Fatigue (feeling weak all over the body) affects each person in a different way. Some people may not be able to do simply things like walking or climbing the stairs. Others may be too tired to stand up to take a shower. Still others may have trouble thinking, or it may be hard to concentrate while watching TV or reading a book. There are tips you can use to help save your energy so you can do the things that are important to you.

Tips to save your energy: