n WHAT NEW METHODS OF THERAPY ARE AVAILABLE? Most advances made in the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma have been gained through a process known as “clinical trials.” Clinical trials use research to develop better ways to treat patients with non- Hodgkin lymphoma. In clinical trials, the best known (standard) treatment is compared with a new (experimental) treatment that is believed to be as good as, and possibly better than, the standard treatment. Clinical trials allow doctors to determine whether prom- ising new treatments are safe and effective. Participation in clinical trials is voluntary. Before you are asked to make a decision about your child’s participation in a clinical trial, the healthcare team will discuss it with you in detail, including the risks and benefits.
n HOW CAN I WORK WITH THE HEALTHCARE TEAM? The care of your child requires a team approach. You are a key player on your child’s healthcare team. You know your child better than anyone else, and your input is important. Other members of your child’s healthcare team include doctors, nurses, and social workers. Always communicate openly with the other members of your child’s healthcare team. Ask questions when you are unsure about anything. It may help to write down your questions as you think of them. This will help you remember all of your questions when you must meet with the healthcare team.
Important questions you may want to ask • What stage is the cancer, and what does that mean? • What treatment choices are available? • What treatment do you recommend and why? • What are the risks or side effects during the treatment? • What are the risks and side effects after the treatment?
• What are my child’s chances for survival? • What are the chances for recurrence?
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