Hello, my uncle has been diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumour in lungs and brain. he started his radiofrequency treatment but he refuses to do chemotherapy as it can leads to many sides effects he was told. What is your advice to him?
I am sorry to hear about your uncle's situation, this must be a difficult time for everyone involved.
Decisions about treatment need to be made by the patient themselves and it is their choice whether or not they accept a treatment. However it is important that your uncle is made aware of how not having chemo may affect his outlook, so do encourage him to ask his doctor so he can make an informed choice.
It can be very scary for patients and loved ones to read the information sheets about the side effects of different treatments. The patient should discuss any concerns they have about side effects to find out how they can be managed if they were to occur.
Every patient is different and the way they may be affected by chemotherapy. Some will experience very few side effects whilst carrying on with their everyday life whereas others will have more severe side effects that can affect them much more.
Often the benefits versus the risks of a treatment need to be weighed up for each person so the best decision can be made for them, in their situation.
I hope this helps a little. Do get back back if you need to or if you or your uncle would like to speak with one of the nurses on the helpline our number is 0808 800 4040 and we're here weekdays 9-5.
