Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS):

1. What tests will I receive to diagnose MDS?
   
   
2. How will the tests be performed?
   
   
3. What type of MDS do I have?
   
   
4. What are the treatment options for this disease?
   
   
5. What are the risks associated with the treatment?
   
   
6. Will I need a bone marrow or stem cell transplant?
   
   
7. Can I donate my own bone marrow or stem cells?
   
   
8. How can a compatible donor be located if I need one?
   
   
9. What are the chances that my disease will progress to leukemia?
   
   
10. Can I make any lifestyle changes that will lower my risk of this progression?
    
    
11. What is the prognosis with my type and stage of MDS?
    
    
12. Am I a candidate for any clinical trials?
    
    
13. Can you refer me to a support group for MDS?
    
    
14. Do my children have a greater risk of developing MDS?
    
    
15. Should they undergo genetic testing?