Oncology is the branch of medicine that deals with tumors and cancer. It is the study and treatment of tumors, and an oncologist is a doctor who specializes in treating cancer and providing medical care to those who have been diagnosed with it. Oncology literally means “the study of volume, mass or tumor”, with “-logy” meaning “study”. Depending on the grade and stage of the cancer, oncologists help plan the right therapy for each of their patients.
This may include radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or palliative care. Radiation oncologists treat cancer with radiation therapy, which involves the use of high-energy x-rays or other particles to kill cancer cells. Surgical oncologists treat cancer through surgery, which includes removing the tumor and nearby tissue during an operation. Urological oncologists treat cancers of the genitourinary system, such as the bladder, kidneys, penis, prostate, and testicles.
Medical oncologists treat cancer with medications such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Oncology also involves screening for cancer in the general population and evaluating patients' family members (for types of cancer thought to have an inherited basis). A tremendous amount of research is underway in all areas of oncology, ranging from cancer cell biology to chemotherapy treatment regimens and optimal palliative care and pain relief. That means that different types of oncologists and other healthcare providers work together to create an overall patient treatment plan. The word “onco” has its roots in ancient Greek. After initial therapy is complete, the oncologist is responsible for monitoring the patient for relapse and remission.
Oncology relies on diagnostic tools such as biopsy or removing fragments of tumor tissue and examining them under a microscope. Since then, I have participated in in-person and online support groups, joined retreats, and met countless health professionals who specialize in oncology as I continue my research. The oncologist may also be called a cancer specialist. The term oncology literally means a branch of science that deals with tumors and cancers. An oncology consultant suggested radiation therapy for lung and head injury. You probably think of cancer treatment as a modern practice, but the word oncology has its roots in ancient Greek.
They want me to go there for oncology because I finished breast cancer and they removed a lump and finished treatment with radiation therapy.
