Oncology is the branch of medicine dedicated to studying, diagnosing, treating, and preventing cancer. It encompasses a broad range of disciplines and techniques aimed at combating the many forms of cancer affecting various parts of the body. Oncologists, the doctors specializing in this field, are committed to understanding how cancers develop, spread, and can be controlled or eradicated. This field is divided into three main areas:
Understanding oncology and its complexities is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and providing comprehensive care to patients battling cancer.
Effective cancer treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis, achieved through various oncology tests. These tests are vital for determining the type of cancer, its stage, and the most effective treatment approach. Some common types of oncology tests include:
Each test provides crucial information that helps oncologists tailor treatment plans to each patient's needs.
Oncology treatments vary widely based on the type of cancer, its stage, and other individual factors. The main goal is to eliminate cancer, reduce its spread, and manage symptoms associated with the disease. Here are some common types of cancer treatments:
Oncology treatments, while life-saving, often come with a range of side effects, which can vary widely depending on the type of treatment and the individual's health. Patients need to understand these potential side effects to manage them better and communicate effectively with their healthcare team.
The results of oncology treatments can vary significantly from person to person based on the cancer type, stage, overall health, and how the cancer responds to treatment.
In some cases, treatment can eliminate cancer, leading to a cure. For many cancers, the primary aim is to control the growth and spread of cancer to prolong life and improve quality of life.
When curing cancer is not possible, treatments may focus on reducing the severity of symptoms to make the patient as comfortable as possible. Patients need to have realistic expectations and discuss potential outcomes and treatment goals with their oncologist.
Preparing for oncology treatments involves both physical and psychological preparation. Here's how patients can ready themselves for the journey ahead:
Procedure | Oncology |
Duration | 15 - 30 minutes (Consultation session) |
Stay in Turkey | Outpatient |
Cost in Turkey | €200 to €800 |
Anesthesia | Not needed |
Recovery Time | Depends on the treatment |
Final Results Visibility | Depends on the treatment |
Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and fatigue |
Risks | Risk of infection, and potential for scarring |
Success Rate | Depends on the treatment |
Returning to Exercise | Light activities are allowed |
Returning To Work | Avoid physically demanding tasks until full recovery |
Scars | Slight |
Pain | Slight |
Related Procedures | Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy |
The term "oncology" comes from the Greek word "onkos," which means mass, burden, or tumor. Oncology is the medical specialty dedicated to studying, diagnosing, treating, and preventing cancer.
You might be referred to an oncologist if your primary care doctor suspects or has diagnosed you with cancer. Oncologists specialize in managing cancer through various treatments and therapies and are equipped to provide the specialized care required for cancer patients.
While Stage 4 cancer is often not curable due to its spread to distant organs, it can still be treated to prolong life and improve symptoms. The focus may shift from curative treatment to palliative care to enhance quality of life.
Some cancers can be cured, especially if detected and treated early. The possibility of a cure depends on the type, stage, and how well the cancer responds to treatment.
Oncologists are the doctors who specialize in treating cancer. Depending on the treatment methods they specialize in, there are several types of oncologists, including medical oncologists, surgical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
No cancer is 100% curable, as recurrence is always possible. However, some cancers, such as certain types of testicular cancer and thyroid cancer, have very high cure rates when detected early and treated properly.
Stage 4 cancer is not necessarily 100% fatal, but it is generally considered advanced and has a lower survival rate than cancer detected at an earlier stage. Treatment aims to extend life and improve the quality of life.
Some cancers, such as certain types of pancreatic cancer and glioblastoma, are often considered incurable because they are typically diagnosed at an advanced stage and do not respond well to current treatments.
Cancer starts when cells in a body part begin to grow out of control. These cancerous cells can invade nearby tissues and spread to other body parts. The exact triggers for this cell growth vary widely among cancer types and patients.
Cancer can be genetic in the sense that genetic predispositions influence some types passed down from family members. However, most cancers result from genetic factors and environmental exposures.
Cancer itself may not always cause pain, but cancer treatments and tumor growth can cause discomfort and pain depending on the location and size of the tumor.
The biggest cause of cancer is a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Tobacco use, exposure to harmful radiation, certain infections, and lifestyle choices such as diet and physical inactivity are significant contributors.
Cancer prevention involves reducing risk factors where possible. This includes not smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding excessive sun exposure, getting vaccinated against viral infections like HPV and Hepatitis B, and participating in recommended cancer screening programs to detect cancers early.