Oncology is the study of cancer. An oncologist is a doctor who treats cancer and provides medical care for a person diagnosed with cancer, they may also be called a cancer specialist.
What is Cancer?
To put it simply, each body cell has a tightly regulated system controlling its growth, maturity, reproduction, and eventual death. When cells in a part of the body start to grow out of control, cancer begins. Even though cancer can happen in many different parts of the body, causing different types of cancer, they all start for the same reason; out-of-control growth of abnormal cells. Today, millions of people are living with cancer or have had cancer.
How long has Cancer existed?
Some of the earliest evidence of cancer is found among fossilized bone tumors, human mummies in ancient Egypt, and ancient manuscripts. Abnormalities suggestive of the bone cancer called osteosarcoma have been seen in mummies.
What is an Oncologist?
An oncologist is a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer. Oncologists manage your cancer treatment throughout your illness. They’ll:
- Help diagnose your cancer.
- Identify treatment options and discuss each option’s benefits and side effects.
- Oversee your treatment.
- Manage your post-treatment care.
What are the types of Oncology treatments?
Medical oncologists treat cancer using medication, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Radiation oncologists: Treats cancer, with the use of high-energy X-rays or other particles to destroy cancer cells.
Surgical oncologists: Treat cancer by removing the tumor and nearby tissue during an operation.
Here are definitions for some common terms used by oncologists who specialize in caring for specific groups of cancer patients:
Geriatric oncologists: Treat cancer patients who are age 65 and older. As older patients have additional challenges, these specialists can provide the best care for older patients.
Gynecologic oncologists: Treat cancers in organs such as the cervix, fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, vagina, and vulva.
Hematologist-oncologists: Treat blood cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
Neuro-oncologists: Treat cancers of the brain, spine, and nervous system.
Pediatric oncologists: Treat cancer in children and teens.
Thoracic oncologists: Treat cancers inside the chest area, including the lungs and esophagus.
Urologic oncologists: Treat cancers in the genitourinary system, such as the bladder, kidneys, penis, prostate gland, and testicles.
What is the role of the Oncologist?
Recommending tests to determine whether a person has cancer
Explaining a cancer diagnosis, including the type and stage of the cancer
Talking about all treatment options and your treatment choice
Delivering quality and compassionate care
Helping you manage symptoms and side effects of cancer and its treatment
When should I see an Oncologist?
Different cancers affect your body in different ways. Generally speaking, you might see an oncologist if you talk to your primary care physician about a change in your body and they recommend you have some preliminary tests. You likely will be referred to an oncologist if your tests indicate you have cancer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, oncology is a critical field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer. It involves a multidisciplinary approach to care, with various types of treatments available depending on the type and stage of cancer. These treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, stem cell transplant, and precision medicine. Oncologists work closely with patients to determine the most effective treatment plan, taking into account the patient’s overall health, the type of cancer, and the stage at which it is diagnosed. Despite the challenges, advancements in oncology have led to improved survival rates and quality of life for many cancer patients. However, the fight against cancer continues, with ongoing research and clinical trials aimed at finding more effective treatments and ultimately, a cure.