How do I Assess Risks versus Benefits of Treatment Options?- 1

Part 1 Assessing risks and benefits of treatments

Always be vigilant to be sure you know what will be done, and why, before you begin treatment. Some treatments may carry greater potential risks because they have to be so precisely targeted to a specific limited area of the body. But depending solely on complementary treatments, however, is not risk-free. It could result in the postponement, or lack, of critical aggressive treatment when needed.

Ask your healthcare professionals -both mainstream and complementary about:

1] Risks – What are the risks or potential problems associated with this treatment? What are the side effects? What possible harm or complications have been known to occur?

2] Benefits - What are the potential benefits of this treatment? How will it address / alleviate/ cure/ improve my problem?

2] And… What if I do nothing? – What are the risks and benefits of doing nothing? What are the risks and benefits of not choosing treatment, but making lifestyle changes such as exercising, healthy diet, stop smoking?

When you’ve asked these questions, it’s important to request evidence for the recommendations your professional has made—the topic of the next blog.