When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it’s completely normal for parents to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin. Asking questions helps you understand the plan, feel involved and stay informed.
Below is a gentle list of questions you may find helpful at different stages of treatment.
Questions About the Diagnosis
- What type of cancer does my child have?
- Has it spread anywhere else in the body?
- How certain is the diagnosis?
- Are there any genetic factors involved?
- What tests will my child need now and in the coming weeks?
Questions About Treatment
- What is the aim of the treatment — cure, control, or symptom management?
- What treatment options are available?
- Why is this treatment recommended for my child?
- How long will treatment last?
- Where will treatment take place - hospital, day unit, or home?
- Will my child need to stay in hospital overnight or for longer periods?
- Are there different phases of treatment? If so, what does each phase involve?
- Might my child need surgery, radiotherapy or a stem cell transplant?
Questions About Side Effects
- What side effects are most common with this treatment?
- What can we do at home to help manage these?
- Who do we contact if side effects get worse?
- Are there any serious side effects we should look out for?
- Will treatment affect my child’s hair, appetite, sleep or energy?
- Will this treatment affect my child’s immune system?
Questions About Daily Life
- Can my child continue going to school during treatment?
- How will treatment affect play, hobbies or sports?
- What about diet — are there foods we should avoid or encourage?
- Are there things we should avoid (e.g., crowded places, swimming, certain activities)?
Questions About Long-Term Outlook
- What is the expected outlook for this type of cancer?
- How will we know if treatment is working?
- What happens if the cancer doesn’t respond as expected?
- What long-term side effects should we be aware of?
- How will follow-up appointments work after treatment ends?
Questions About Support & Practical Help
- Who is our main point of contact in the team?
- How do we reach someone in an emergency or out-of-hours?
- Is there emotional or psychological support for my child?
- What support is available for parents and siblings?
- Are there any financial, travel or practical support schemes we can access?
Questions About Clinical Trials
- Are there any clinical trials available for my child’s cancer type?
- What would be the benefits and risks of joining a trial?
- How would trial treatment differ from standard treatment?
- Can we take time to think about it before making a decision?
Final Reassurance
You never need to apologise for asking questions.
You can:
- write questions down before appointments
- ask the team to repeat or re-explain anything
- ask for information in writing
- ask for a quiet moment to think
Your child’s care team is there to support your whole family. Your questions are welcome, important and always valid.
Important Notice
This page is intended to back up the information you get from the hospital, not to replace medical advice from a consultant.
Information last reviewed on 14th April 2022. Statistics provided by Cancer Research UK, Accessed 2022 – https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancer-statistics/childrens-cancers
Based on information originally produced by Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG), Accessed 2022.
