Being diagnosed with colorectal cancer can leave you very frightened, overwhelmed, and anxious. Your mind may feel like it’s racing in a million different directions as you wonder what lies ahead and how you will manage it all.
Most of all, you will have many questions about your diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. The list below is a good way to organize your thoughts when talking to your provider.
,
Top Ten Questions to Ask Your Doctor: When You’re Newly Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer
- What type of cancer do I have?
- What stage is my cancer? [link to this term in glossary]
- What is my prognosis? [link to this term in glossary]
- Will I need more surgery?
- What are the treatment options?
- Which treatment options do you believe are the best ones for me – and why?
- What will be the side effects of my treatment?
- How will my treatment affect my ability to work and do other activities?
- Are there clinical trials [link to this term in glossary] that I should consider?
- If I would like a second opinion, how do I go about it?
More tips: Remember to take a pen and notebook to your appointments so that you can take notes. It’s also a good idea to have a trusted friend or family member with you during your doctor visits. This not only gives you great emotional support but also provides another set of ears to listen to what your doctor says.
Top resources

Lexie Haglund: Beating stage IV CRC
Discover how knowing her G12C biomarker guided Lexie’s stage IV colorectal cancer treatment — from a shock diagnosis to HIPEC surgery — and why screening, research, and self-advocacy matter.

Unmet needs in CRC: Survey results offer hope
Uncover key survey findings on the unmet psychosocial and physical needs of colorectal cancer patients and survivors, and learn how the Alliance is shaping better care.

HAI liver pump for mCRC offers second chances
Discover how Hope overcame stage IV colorectal cancer with an innovative HAI liver pump, staying active and proving that second chances are possible.