Not doing chemo...why have scans?

The Oncologist knows I am not having chemo and hope to live for another five years or so based on info provided.  I know I need to see an MD regularly and understand blood work.  I do not know why, however, the Oncologist wants to do regular scans.  Certainly pain meds are not prescribed based on the results of scans?  Lordy, I hope not!

Bernadette,

You did not say where your cancer is.... The reason your Oncologist wants to do blood work and scans every six months is for your protection.  The scans will pick up any cancer if your cancer returns.

No, 'pain meds' are not prescribed based on results of scans.

I would suggest  you listen to your Oncologist.

Keep a positive attitude, have hope and faith for many years to come!  ;)

Prayers and blessings,

B

Following my surgery the lab reports indicated that there are remaining cancer cells in the nodes.  I am not doing chemo.  I am trying to understand why there is a benefit to scans.  Going to my primary and having regular blood tests makes sense but I don't "get" scans.  Surely it can't be related to the palliative care meds in the future.  I hope not.  B

Bernadette,

I just don't understand...  If there are remaining cancer cells in the lympnodes; why doesn't the Oncologist have you on an Oral Chemo?

At least ask your Oncologist what are your chances of still being here if you choose not to take the chemo!

There is hope of surviving cancer if caught and treated soon enough.

I just hope you make the right decision.  I wish you the best.

Prayers and blessings,

B

My Oncologist, surgeon and primary understand why I am not doing chemo.  The question now is why the Oncologist wants regularly scheduled scans during my maintenance period but the other MD's plan blood work w/o scans.  Thanks for your best wishes.