Sample Questions to Ask the Doctor

As a man copes with prostate cancer and its treatment, they are encouraged to have honest, open discussions with their doctor. They should feel free to ask any question that's on their mind, no matter how small it might seem. These questions are offered as a place to start:

• What is the likelihood that the cancer has spread beyond my prostate? If so, is it still curable?
• What additional tests do you recommend and why?
• What is the clinical stage and grade of my cancer? What do those mean in my case?
• Do you recommend a radical prostatectomy or radiation for me? Why or why not?
• If you recommend a radical prostatectomy, will it be nerve sparing?
• What other treatments might be appropriate for me? Why?
• Among those treatments, what are the risks or side effects I should expect?
• What are the chances that I will have problems with incontinence or impotence?
• What are the chances that I will have other urinary or rectal problems?
• What are the chances of the cancer coming back with the treatment you suggest?
• What is my expected survival rate based on clinical stage, grade, and various treatment options?
• Should I follow a special diet?