Oncology
Oncology is a branch of medicine dealing with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The oncologist is a medical professional who practices oncology. There are three components which have improved survival in cancer:
- Prevention - This is by reduction of risk factors like tobacco and alcohol consumption.
- Early diagnosis - Screening of common cancers and comprehensive diagnosis and staging
- Treatment - Multimodality management by discussion in tumor board and treatment in a comprehensive cancer center.
Cancers are managed by attending multi-disciplinary cancer conferences where the surgical oncologist, pathologist, medical oncologist, organ-specific oncologists meet to find possible management for an individual patient considering the social, emotional, physical, psychological and financial status of patients.