Education and resources

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Checklist for doctor’s appointments

1. New Physical Symptoms: Note any pain (where, type, intensity), lumps, skin changes, swelling (especially in arms/chest), shortness of breath, persistent cough, headaches, vision changes, bone pain, or unexplained weight loss/gain.

2. Ongoing Side Effect Log: Document issues like joint pain, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, fatigue, neuropathy (tingling/numbness), lymphedema, or "chemo brain."

3. Life Impact Log: Note how your health is affecting sleep, mood, work, relationships, exercise, and intimacy.

4. Top 3 Questions: Prioritize your 2-3 most important questions. Write them down.

For Your Oncologist:

1. Confirm you have an updated, written Survivorship Care Plan.
2. Discuss genetic counseling/testing (if not done) for family risk.
3. Ask about clinical trials for survivorship or side-effect management.

For Your Primary Care Physician:

1. Ensure they have your full treatment summary.
2. Discuss age-appropriate screening (colonoscopy, skin checks, etc.)—don't let cancer overshadow other health needs.
3. Update vaccinations (flu, COVID, shingles, pneumonia).
4. Discuss mental health referrals if needed.

For a Menopause/Sexual Health Specialist (e.g., Gynecologist):

1. Be specific about symptoms: vaginal dryness, pain, low libido.
2. Ask about safe options for your cancer type (e.g., vaginal estrogen, lubricants, pelvic floor therapy).

For a Lymphedema Therapist/Physical Therapist:

1. Bring measurements or photos of any swelling.
2. Demonstrate your current exercises for feedback.
3. Ask for a personalized home exercise plan.

American Cancer Society: Survivorship Care Plans
National Cancer Institute: Facing Forward: Life After Cancer Treatment
Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC), Breastcancer.org: Forums and webinars
Academic Sources: Key books or papers from oncologists or survivorship researchers you admire.