Questions to Ask About Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

It's important to have open and honest communications with your cancer care team. Ask about anything you don’t understand about acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or want to know more about. For instance, consider these questions:

When you're told you have AML

• Can you explain to me what AML is? How is it different from other types of leukemia?
• What subtype of AML do I have?
• Are there any other factors that might affect my prognosis?
• Do I need any other tests before we can decide on treatment?
• Will I need to see any other types of doctors?

When deciding on a treatment plan

• Do you and this medical center have a lot of experience treating AML?
• What are my treatment choices?
• Should we consider a stem cell transplant? When?
• Which treatment do you recommend, and why?
• Should I get a second opinion? Can you suggest a doctor or cancer center?
• What should I do to be ready for treatment?
• How long will treatment last? What will it be like? Where will it be done?
• What are the risks and side effects of treatment? How long are they likely to last?
• How will treatment affect my daily activities?
• What is my prognosis (outlook)?

During and after treatment

Once treatment begins, you’ll need to know what to expect and what to look for. Not all of these questions may apply to you, but getting answers to the ones that do may be helpful.

• How will we know if the treatment is working?
• What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?
• Is there anything I can do to help manage side effects?
• What symptoms or side effects should I tell you about right away?
• How can I reach you on nights, holidays, or weekends?
• Will I be able to return to work? Should I go on disability?
• Do I need to eat a special diet during treatment?
• Are there any limits on what I can do?
• Should I exercise? What should I do, and how often?
• Can you suggest a mental health professional I can see if I start to feel overwhelmed, depressed, or distressed?
• What would my options be if the treatment isn’t working?
• Where can I find more information and support?

Be sure to write down any questions you have that are not on this list. For instance, you might want specific information about expected recovery times or returning to work. Or you might want to ask if you qualify for any clinical trials.

Remembering what the doctor says

It’s hard to remember all of the things you’re told at each doctor’s visit, especially when you’re anxious or afraid.

Even if the doctor carefully explains things, you might not hear or remember all that’s said or shown to you. Here are some ways to help you remember everything your doctor tells you.

• Take notes on what your doctor says.
• Ask if you can record your talks.
• Take a family member or friend with you. Ask them to remind you of questions you want to ask and ask them to take notes, so you can focus on listening and talking directly with the doctor. ​

Keep in mind that doctors aren’t the only ones who can give you information. Other health care professionals, such as nurses and social workers, might be able to answer some of your questions. You can find out more about speaking with your health care team in The Doctor-Patient Relationship.