After a diagnosis of cancer many people search for more information about cancer and cancer treatments. This is a very normal and common response and accurate information can assist people to feel more in control and assist them with decision making about their treatment options.  However there are a few tips that may assist you in the process of information gathering.

• Check the source of the information and look for reliability of the source. For example, is it a personal opinion such as an individual’s experience of cancer or is the source a reputable and evidenced based cancer-related professional or consumer body.  

• Discuss anything that you find with your treating doctor or health care team.  The information you are gathering may be relevant to your situation or may not be.  It is important to check it out. 

• Write down any questions you have about your cancer and cancer treatment  so you have an easy reference when you do meet with your doctor.

Cancer Council Helpline staff can assist you with information about cancer and cancer treatments. They are trained professionals who can answer your questions and lead you to the many information resources that are available.   The Cancer Council Queensland provides an extensive range of patient information booklets, videos and DVDs on cancer treatments including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, bio therapies and hormone treatment.  A number of these publications are also available for download from the Resources section on our website.  

Cancer Council Helpline also has a Resource Library which offers a range of books, DVDs, videos and CDs for patients, carers, friends, relatives and health professionals.

For further information contact The Cancer Council Helpline.

The following websites also provide useful information about cancer and cancer treatments.

The Cancer Council Australia
National Cancer Institute - US
British Association of United Cancer Patients - Great Britain
National Breast Cancer Centre - Australia
Lions Australian Prostate Cancer