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 thyroid cancers:

1. Do my symptoms indicate possible thyroid cancer?
   
   
2. What tests will be used to diagnose this cancer?
   
   
3. What type of thyroid cancer do I have and what stage is it?
   
   
4. What are my treatment options?
   
   
5. What are the benefits and risks of these treatments?
   
   
6. If my thyroid gland is removed, what are the side effects?
   
   
7. Will I need continuous medication if I do not have a thyroid gland?
   
   
8. What are the risks of recurrence with my type of cancer?
   
   
9. What is my prognosis with this type of cancer?
   
   
10. Is my form of thyroid cancer genetic?
    
    
11. Should my family members consider genetic testing?
    
    
12. What is the likelihood of my children developing thyroid cancer?