How to advocate for your needs

After a breast cancer diagnosis, you may feel like you are in unfamiliar territory. It is important to focus on what you need, and to stay actively involved in decisions about your care. Remember that you also have clear rights as a patient. These include the right to receive understandable information about your diagnosis and treatment, the right to give or withhold consent, the right to privacy, and the right to access the care you need without discrimination. You have the right to ask questions, to see your medical records, to take the time you need to make decisions, and to choose the professionals you feel comfortable with. These rights exist to protect your dignity, ensure your safety, and support you in receiving care that respects your needs and values. Keeping them in mind can help you feel more empowered throughout your breast cancer journey.¹

Taking an active role, also known as self-advocacy, means learning about your diagnosis, treatment options, and the types of support available. Ask questions, share your concerns openly, and work together with your healthcare team to make decisions that feel right for you. It is important that treatment decisions are made collaboratively with your doctors, including how the treatment is given and what will work best for your daily life.²

Good communication with your care team is essential. Do not assume they know what you are worried about, tell them clearly. Studies show that oncologists may perceive your needs differently from you, and this communication gap can make the journey feel even harder.³

To help bridge this gap, make sure you get information about your diagnosis and treatment options in ways you can understand, both in writing and verbally. Do not hesitate to ask for information to be repeated if you need it, as many people remember information in pieces. Give yourself the space you need to ask questions, process the information and make sense of your options.²

It can help to prepare for appointments by making a list of questions in advance. Keeping a record of treatments, medications, and side effects can also make conversations easier. Consider bringing a friend or family member with you for support and remember that you have the right to discuss all aspects of your health, including sexual health and reproductive care.

By advocating for yourself and communicating openly with your care team, you can make sure your treatment truly reflects your needs and priorities, helping you feel more informed, supported, and confident throughout your care.

Sources

1. Active Citizenship Network. European Charter of patients’ rights. (2022).
2. Loibl, S. et al. Early breast cancer: ESMO Clinical Practice Guideline for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Ann. Oncol. 35, 159–182 (2024).
3. Freyer, G. et al. HERmione: Understanding the Needs of Patients Living with Metastatic HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Through a Cross-Sectional Survey in Parallel with Patients and Oncologists. Cancers 17, 1349 (2025).