An oncologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer. There are different types of oncologists, each focusing on a specific area of cancer care:
Types of Oncologists:
- Medical Oncologist – Uses chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy to treat cancer.
- Radiation Oncologist – Treats cancer using radiation therapy.
- Surgical Oncologist – Specializes in removing tumors and surrounding tissue through surgery.
- Pediatric Oncologist – Treats cancers in children.
- Gynecologic Oncologist – Focuses on cancers of the female reproductive system, like ovarian or uterine cancer.
- Hematologist-Oncologist – Specializes in blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
What Oncologists Do:
- Diagnose cancer through biopsies, imaging, and blood tests.
- Stage the cancer (determine how advanced it is).
- Develop treatment plans tailored to each patient.
- Monitor the patient’s progress and adjust treatment as needed.
- Provide palliative care and manage symptoms.
- Offer supportive care and coordinate with other specialists.