Thank you for using this free resource from Just Tea. (Printable Version HERE)

We help individuals looking to use alternative methods of treatment, or to reduce symptoms associated with chemo/radiation.

How to use this guide

Decision fatigue can get the best of us on *good* days. Sometimes the best way to decide on a treatment path is to know what you don’t know. This packet will help with that – by helping you discover what to ask your oncologist to make the most informed decision possible. After all, you are the one who calls the shots for your body.

While none of this is comfortable to learn, that saying ‘knowing is half the battle’ is absolutely true in this instance. My hope is you use this as the tool it’s meant to be and can walk out of your next visit well-informed with a plan of action you’re comfortable with.

There is plenty of room for you to record answers and ask additional questions in each section.

References to all materials are listed at the end of this packet.

Overview of topics in printable guide

This FREE Guide covers the following topics:

1. Diagnosis

Cancers are named based on their origin site (e.g., breast cancer) or the type of cell they arise from. There are over 200 known types, classified into main categories: Main Types by Cell Origin and Cancers by Organ. We go through the different types in further detail in the guide as well as questions to consider.

2. Treatment

We discuss both conventional and complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) in brief detail.

Cancer treatment options vary based on the type, stage, and individual characteristics of the cancer. Conventional refers to traditional western medical treatments you receive from a licensed physician.

Along with traditional western medical treatments are natural cancer treatments, which refer to complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) approaches used alongside or instead of conventional therapies.

3. Testing

Cancer treatment resistance is a major challenge, often due to genetic mutations that allow cancer cells to evolve and survive therapy. Over time, treatments may stop working as cancer cells develop resistance, especially in advanced or metastatic stages where cells differ from the original tumor and are less responsive to drugs.

You may be sensitive to certain types of chemo or other treatment medications. There are several tests you can ask for before treatment to determine if that is the case. Check out the guide for further details on the types of testing.

4. Survival Rate

Survival rates vary by cancer type, stage at diagnosis, age and access to healthcare and are ONLY Estimates based on the latest data. Early detection through screening plays a critical role in improving outcomes. While a 5-year survival rate does not mean a cure, it indicates a strong likelihood of long-term survival, as many cancers do not recur after this period.

Five-year survival rates for cancer have significantly improved over recent decades, with the overall five-year relative survival rate for all cancers combined now at 70% in the United States—up from about 50% in the mid-1970s. This milestone reflects advancements in early detection, treatment, and reductions in smoking rates. Our guide goes into further detail on current estimates.

5. Diet

Maintaining good nutrition during cancer treatment is crucial to support healing, preserve muscle mass, and sustain energy levels. Treatment can cause side effects like nausea, loss of appetite, and changes in taste, making it challenging to eat. However, eating small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day can help meet increased calorie and protein needs.

There are a LOT of different opinions on diet during cancer treatment – so do your research and apply it to your unique situation. Check out the guide for our recommendations.

6. Physician References

This section refers to asking your doctor about other patient references. When asking a physician for a reference related to their care, it’s important to be clear, respectful, and specific about your requests in this topic. Check out the do’s and don’t(s) of asking for references here.

7. Money

Cancer treatment costs vary widely based on cancer type, stage, treatment plan, insurance, and location. I’m going to provide estimates based on current numbers (2026) in the United States. These are questions you’re going to want answers to if you agree to treatment. In general, there are three phases of costs: Initial, continuing, and end-of-life. Our Free guide give you current estimates of each phase as well as general recommendations when on the topic.

8. Final Questions

This section covers questions regarding copies of records, if they’re available after hours for questions and other general topics not already covered.

Thank you

Thank you for trusting just tea to provide you with this free resource.

Maybe you’ve wondered why is a tea company made a guide on questions to ask your oncologist? Our focus has always been on helping individuals make informed decision on their health.

Yes, we offer products that help with the *alternative* treatment side of things, but feel it’s important you’re supported in your health decisions whether you buy a single thing from us.

Please feel free to print and share this guide with your friends and loved ones.