Oncology
What is oncology?
Oncology is a field of medicine that studies, diagnoses, and treats tumors and cancer. Cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. There are many types of cancers, including breast cancer, leukemia, and colon cancer. Physicians who specialize in oncology are “oncologists.”
Many symptoms like fatigue and unexplained weight loss can indicate cancer. Oncologists often perform biopsies, blood tests, and imaging to diagnose and type cancers. They also develop care plans to treat cancers, which may include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and therapy.
Why is oncology important to healthcare?
Oncology is important to healthcare because it offers patients specialized medical care for cancer diagnosis and treatment. The evidence-based interventions that oncologists provide can lead to better outcomes for patients.