Talk Cancer

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, My stepmother has just been diagnosed with lung and liver cancer.  She says she feels so well that she cannot believe this.  Her doctor suggests starting chemotherapy now while she is still well.  Is this a good idea? She is very concerned.  Anyone have advice? Many cancer patients, at the time of diagnosis, are feeling well, unless the cancer has grown large enough to affect the function of the organ.  It definitely is important that she start chemotherapy right away.  Cancer cells being what they are, they will divide quickly, making treatment more difficult at a later time.  Also she will become symptomatic if went untreated. In general, the earlier you start treatment, the better the outcome.  Late stage cancers generally have poorer prognosis. Hope that helps.

YES YES YES – START TREATMENT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! Sorry for yelling, but I feel so strongly about this.  If treatment is delayed, the cancer is spreading, perhaps into other vital organs. Also, chemotherapy is very rigorous.  The healthier the patient, the more tolerable the chemotherapy.

Response:

Hi, My stepmother has just been diagnosed with lung and liver cancer.  She says she feels so well that she cannot believe this.  Her doctor suggests starting chemotherapy now while she is still well.  Is this a good idea? She is very concerned.  Anyone have advice?

Response: