If you need to have treatment for cancer, it’s only natural to have some questions. Here are some answers to six things people often ask about medical oncology and cancer treatment.
1. What types of treatments are there for cancer?
Several different types of treatment are available for cancer. Your doctor will work with you to create a tailored treatment plan. This will be based on a few things, including:
- the type of cancer
- whether it has spread
- whether you have any symptoms.
Medical oncologists prescribe medicines to treat cancer. These may include:
- chemotherapy – medicines that destroy cancer cells
- immunotherapy – medicines that stimulate the immune system
- targeted treatments – medicines that work on specific proteins or “targets”
- hormonal treatments.
Depending on your situation, your doctor might also recommend surgery or radiation therapy as part of your cancer treatment.
2. What is medical oncology?
Medical oncology is the medical specialty that deals with solid cancers. These are cancers that form tumours or masses, such as breast cancer, bowel cancer and lung cancer.
Medical oncologists are doctors with additional training to diagnose and treat these cancers using medicines. They work in a team with other cancer specialists, such as surgeons, radiation oncologists and other physicians.
3. Will I lose my hair if I have chemotherapy?
If you need chemotherapy, you won’t necessarily lose your hair. Some chemotherapy treatments are associated with hair loss (or alopecia), while others are not. Your doctor will explain whether the chemotherapy you’ve been prescribed will lead to:
- no loss
- a little loss (thinning)
- more significant hair loss.
Hair loss from chemotherapy is usually temporary.
If you’re likely to lose your hair during chemotherapy, our doctors and nurses will discuss your head coverage options with you. These may include:
- borrowing a wig from our library
- buying a wig
- using head coverings such as scarves, wraps, or beanies.
4. What should I do to prepare for my first appointment?
You don’t need to do anything special to prepare. However, some people find it helpful to write down any questions they’d like to ask during the appointment.
Please bring a list of medications you’re currently taking and any scans or copies of reports to your consultation.
5. What happens during my first visit to an oncologist?
During your first visit to your medical oncologist, the doctor does various things to help them understand your situation and create a personalised treatment plan. They will ask you about:
- whether you’ve had any previous medical problems
- your living situation and family history
- any cancer tests or treatments you’ve had already.
Your doctor will then let you know what they recommend for you, such as any additional tests. They will talk to you about the treatment plan they think is best and go over any expected side effects with you.
It’s always helpful to bring a trusted friend or loved one to this appointment so they can support you and note down important information.
6. What should I bring if I’m having chemotherapy or medicine through a drip?
If you’re having treatment through a drip at our Day Infusion Centre, it’s good to find out roughly how long your treatment will take. If you’d like to keep busy during your treatment, consider bringing a book, iPad, knitting or something else to keep you occupied. Some people prefer to have a rest in our comfortable recliner chairs.
We provide drinks and sandwiches, but you can bring your own snacks with you if you wish.
More information
Find out more about the cancer care services at Northern Beaches Hospital. You can also call our friendly team on 02 9105 5000, or send a message to nbh@healthscope.com.au.
About Dr Pearson
Dr Antonia Pearson is a Medical Oncologist (Cancer) who has a particular interest in caring for people with breast, lung and gynaecological malignancies. She is an active member of several multidisciplinary cancer teams at Northern Beaches Hospital and Oncology Clinical Trials Lead.
Antonia believes strongly in a patient-centred and collaborative approach to caring for people with cancer. She understands that each patient is a unique individual and works with her patients to achieve the best outcomes for them. Antonia prioritises communication, patient advocacy and multidisciplinary collaboration to provide the best medical care for her patients. She strongly believes in the role of clinical trials in providing access to innovative treatments for her patients.
Dr Antonia Pearson
BMed (Dist.) FRACP
Medical Oncologist
Northern Beaches Hospital
105 Frenchs Forest Road West, Frenchs Forest NSW 2086
P 02 9105 5000
F 02 9463 1092