If I Were Tom | Prostate Cancer Support and Resources
[ifiweretom.ubc.ca]

First Things to Know

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian men (excluding non-melanoma skin cancers) but it’s also a cancer that’s treatable and manageable. The Gleason score will tell you how aggressive your cancer is and will help identify treatment options suitable for you. It’s a good idea to gather as much information as you can about possible treatments and side effects. In addition to family and professional support, there are many free resources, programs and services available to assist you.

  • Getting ready for the appointment

    Here are some steps I can take to prepare for my appointment:

    1. Ask if there's anything I need to do before the appointment.
    2. Write down any symptoms I'm having even if I think they don't relate to the reason for the appointment.
    3. Write down important personal information including any major stresses or recent life changes.
    4. Take a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements that I take.
    5. Think about taking a family member with me.
    6. Write down questions to ask the doctor.

  • Top Questions to Ask the Doctor

    Choose the top 3 questions you'd ask your doctor. Then click CONFIRM CHOICES below to see how your choices compare to those made by other men.

    Here's how you and other men voted:

    Here are some top questions to ask your doctor.

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  • About the Diagnosis

    Watch the following videos to hear different perspectives from Dr. David Kuhl, Physician, and Vince, prostate cancer survivor, on the most important things to know about a prostate cancer diagnosis.

  • After the Diagnosis

    While it’s important to trust the expertise of your medical team and listen to their advice, ultimately you’re in the driver’s seat responsible for making the critical decisions about your health. The more you talk and ask questions about treatment options, the stronger your decision-making skills will become. Build a network of family and friends to assist you and consider joining a support group to connect with other men who have prostate cancer and learn from their experiences.

    Watch the following videos to hear different perspectives on the most important things to do after a prostate cancer diagnosis from Dr. Michael McKenzie, Radiation Oncologist, and Paul, prostate cancer survivor. Then hear from Dr. Alex Broom, Professor of Sociology, on things to keep in mind about the prognosis.

  • Top Questions after a Diagnosis

    Listen to Leanne Kopp, Victoria Prostate Centre, and Dr. Alex Broom, Sociologist, identify the most common questions asked by men with prostate cancer.

  • Advance Care Planning

    Watch the following video to discover 5 easy steps to planning for your future healthcare, from the 'Speak Up' Advance Care Planning initiative of the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association.

To see videos on all of these topics, visit ifiweretom.ubc.ca/first-things-to-know-about-prostate-cancer