This is a branch specialising in diagnosing and treating cancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, targeted therapy, Immunotherapy, etc. This is a very dynamic field with a lot of research and rapid new advances. A medical oncologist often is the main health care provider for someone who has cancer. A medical oncologist also gives supportive care and palliative care. Treating cancer is a team sport involving several specialists and a Medical Oncologist may coordinate treatment given by other doctors.
A Surgical Oncologist is a surgeon who has training in performing very specialised surgical procedures in cancer patients. Modern surgical techniques in cancer and newer procedures improve cure rates tremendously. A Surgical Oncologist specialises in placing Chemoports and other venous access devices, biopsies, optimal surgical excision of cancers, minimally invasive surgeries, robotic surgeries, etc.
A Radiation Oncologist has special training in using radiation to treat cancer. Using Gamma ray irradiation is an age old technique in the treatment of many cancers. Newer techniques may use electron beams or photon therapy as indicated. Modern radiation techniques and skills fine tune the focus of radiation beams on the cancer mass only, sparing normal tissues so that most cancer cells can be killed while decreasing side effects a lot..
Cancer is a diagnosis that creates a tremendous psychological impact on patients, their families and even their communities. A specialised counsellor can talk with patients and their families about emotional and personal matters, and can help them make decisions and also help to emotionally deal with their diagnosis and it's impacts.
This specialty deals in diagnosing and treating all blood related disorders. These include all kinds of blood cancers, bleeding disorders, blood clotting problems, low blood counts, etc. This is a separate specialty from Medical Oncology but some doctors who train in the USA may choose to obtain training and certification in both specialities.
National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research :http://cancerindia.org.in | Indian Cancer Society : indiancancersociety.org |
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National Cancer Institute, USA : cancer.gov | American Cancer Society : cancer.org |
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