If you have been diagnosed with cancer, here are some ways to deal with potential side effects, both now and down the road.

Ask if the drug or procedure you are being recommended has cardiotoxic effects, now or later on.

If so, make sure there is a plan in place to monitor your heart, such as what tests should be given, when, and how often.

From the moment your cancer is diagnosed, make sure you put together a record of your care. Include the names of every test you undergo, procedure, and medicines you are given.

This record could be a lifesaver if you suffer late effects and you need to know about your treatment.

Ask if your hospital or cancer treatment center provides a cancer survivorship plan. In the past, cancer treatment ended at the last session, but now, with the recognition of these late effects, we realize that’s not enough.