Patient Leaflets — 8/11/2026

Why Are There So Many Medical Words in My Cancer Report?

Cancer reports are written for healthcare professionals, not patients.

Questions You're Afraid to Ask

The short answer

Cancer reports are written for healthcare professionals, not patients.

They may contain technical terms about:

Pathology

Imaging

Tumour biology

Staging

Molecular tests

Treatment response

What should you do?

Do not panic when you see an unfamiliar word.

Mark the words you do not understand and ask your doctor.

You can also ask:

"Which three findings in this report are most important for my treatment?"

That question can be very helpful.

Keep your records

Maintain a folder containing:

Diagnosis

Pathology

Scans

Blood tests

Treatment details

Medicine list

Follow-up reports

NCI recommends that cancer survivors keep records of their treatment and follow-up care. 

Remember

A report is information—not a verdict.

Your doctor must interpret it in the context of your complete clinical picture.

This information is intended for education and supportive care. It does not replace consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have cancer, do not stop, delay or change prescribed cancer treatment because of information found on this website. Tell your cancer-care team about all medicines, Ayurvedic preparations, herbs, vitamins and supplements you use.

Reliable sources: National Cancer Institute (NCI), World Health Organization (WHO), relevant national cancer-care guidelines, and appropriate peer-reviewed evidence.

Dr. Aakash Kembhavi

MD (Ayu-Shalya), PGDMLS, MS (Counseling & Psychotherapy) | Academician, Clinician & Researcher | Chief Editor, International Journal of Ayurveda

Founder of Cancer Support India.