Screening tests sometimes scare me. No, not the discomforts. I’m used to needlesticks (ouch) and contrast (gag). Occasionally, I worry that the risks might not be worth the benefits. What’s a Healthy Survivor to do?
Share your concern with your doctors, and obtain information.
What does the test involve? What will you have to do? What will be done to you? Where is it done? Does it require recovery afterward?
What risks are involved? With your personal medical history in mind, what are the short-term risks, and how likely are they? What about long-term risks?
What will the test tell you? What, exactly, can you learn? What does the test NOT tell you?
What are the options? Do other tests provide the same information with less risk?
How will the results help? Will the results change your plan of action? Do you need the results to know the best course of action?
How quickly does the test need to be done?
Sophisticated testing has become commonplace. Our understanding of the risks, though, changes over time, for better or for worse. Especially for newer tests, it’s worth revisiting every few years.
If your physicians recommend a test, they’ve assessed that the benefits to you outweigh the risks. That said, you have a right to make an informed decision about proceeding. [Note: I haven’t even touched on the complex, important issue of cost.] As a Healthy Survivor, discuss test options the same way you discuss treatment options.
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