All questions · The first few days

Who do I tell, and when?

Whoever you want, whenever you are ready. This is your information. Some people tell everyone in the first week. Some tell one person for months. Both are normal.

If it helps, bring someone to the next appointment and let us explain it. Then you are not left repeating us at home.

Written by two physicians. Checked against patient information from the US National Cancer Institute and Cancer Research UK.

See it with the other cards Read as a book

Also in: English Español 简体中文 हिन्दी Yorùbá Tiếng Việt

More from this section

Content last updated 25 September 2026 · How we write these cards · Report a problem with this card

These cards are for learning. They are not medical advice and do not replace talking with your own doctor.