Getting test results - Siobhán

From my tests, I suppose I learnt everything I needed to know about the cancer: what type it was, where it was situated, what stage it was at, how it was going to be treated, and by whom, and how, and when.

It can be difficult to fully understand what health test results mean for you. Cancer survivor Siobhán Hayes shares her experience and advice.

I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer the last day of June, in 2017. It was a huge shock; it came totally unexpected and out of the blue.

Testing was a was a huge part, it was everything really in relation to finding out that I had cancer. I think for me, waiting for the results was actually worse than the test itself. Those days in between were long.

It is important that you understand what your health test results mean for you. Some tips are: Asking the doctor or nurse to explain the results clearly. Asking what do the test results mean for me and my treatment. Taking away written information and leaflets so you can look at them at home. Asking for contact details of someone who can answer any questions that you might have, or give support when you get home.

I suppose understanding the test results is all about understanding the language, so there was a lot of new information for me to take in. So, then it was really important for me to ask questions.

Another really good idea is to actually bring somebody with you to the appointment, because you're told so much in just such a short space of a few minutes, and it's really hard to take it all in.

This video aims to raise awareness of health literacy issues, among people affected by cancer.

For more tips and advice, please visit our website.