Oncology is the specialized medical field dedicated to the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer. It encompasses various approaches like...
Oncology is the branch of medicine focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. It encompasses medical, surgical, and radiation oncology specializations.
Key treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy, often used in combination or sequentially.
Diagnosis usually involves physical exams, imaging tests (e.g., CT, MRI), laboratory tests (e.g., blood tests), and biopsies, where tissue samples are examined microscopically.
While not all cancers are preventable, risk can be reduced by adopting healthy lifestyle choices, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, protecting skin from sun exposure, and getting recommended vaccinations and screenings.
An oncologist is a physician specializing in cancer treatment. They diagnose cancer, discuss treatment options, manage side effects, and provide ongoing care and support to patients throughout their journey.