If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer, knowing what questions to ask can make a major difference in your treatment journey. Dr. Mark Awad, a leading lung cancer expert at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK), emphasizes the importance of understanding your specific type and stage of lung cancer — whether it’s small cell or non-small cell — and making sure all the necessary scans have been done to determine where the cancer is in the body. It’s also vital to ask about comprehensive genomic and biomarker testing, which can uncover genetic mutations and guide your doctors to the most effective, personalized treatment options, including immunotherapy or targeted drugs.
Dr. Awad also stresses the value of being treated by a dedicated lung cancer team with extensive experience, and encourages patients to seek a second opinion to ensure the best care. While starting treatment quickly may feel urgent, gathering complete information first often leads to better long-term outcomes. Many treatment centers, including MSK, offer care options closer to home and provide support services to help manage side effects, improve quality of life, and support emotional and practical needs. Most importantly, communicate openly with your care team about your goals and what’s most meaningful to you — so your treatment can support your whole life, not just your diagnosis. (Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center)
