Questions to ask: Lung cancer

Diagnosis

• Is my cancer non-small cell or small cell lung cancer?
• What type of NSCLC do I have (adenocarcinoma, squamous, or other)?
• What stage is my cancer? Has it spread to lymph nodes or other organs?
• Has my tumor been tested for EGFR, ALK, and other gene changes?
• Was broad gene testing (next-generation sequencing) done, or just a few genes?
• What is my PD-L1 level, and what does it mean for me?
• Do I need a brain MRI or PET-CT scan?
• Is the goal of treatment to cure the cancer or to control it?
• Should I get a second opinion, and can you help arrange one?
• Does my cancer have any link to my family's health or genes?
• Should my family members who smoke be screened for lung cancer?

Before

• What treatment do you suggest, and why?
• Should I wait for my gene test results before starting treatment?
• Am I a candidate for surgery? Will you give treatment before or after surgery?
• If surgery is not a good option, can SBRT or other radiation be used?
• What are the most common side effects of my treatment?
• How will treatment be given (pill, IV, or radiation), and how often?
• Are there clinical trials I could join?
• Will I need a lung breathing test before treatment?
• How will treatment affect my work, driving, and daily life?
• Who should I call with problems at night or on weekends?
• What help is there to quit smoking?
• What costs should I expect, and who can help with insurance?

During

• How will we know if the treatment is working?
• Which side effects should I call about right away?
• What should I do if I get a new cough or shortness of breath on immunotherapy?
• Are there foods, supplements, or other medicines I should avoid, especially with my targeted pill?
• How can I manage my skin rash, diarrhea, or fatigue?
• When is my next scan?
• What happens if the cancer stops responding to this treatment?
• Should I have a repeat biopsy or blood test if the cancer grows?
• Can I see a palliative care team to help with symptoms?
• Can I see a dietitian, social worker, or counselor?
• How can my caregiver help, and what should they watch for?

After

• How often will I need checkups and scans?
• What signs could mean the cancer has come back?
• How long will I stay on maintenance or targeted medicine?
• What long-term side effects should I watch for?
• Would pulmonary rehab help my breathing and energy?
• Do I need regular brain MRIs?
• Who will be my main doctor after treatment ends?
• Where can my family and I find support groups?

Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.