Oncology
What is oncology?
Oncology is a medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer. Cancer is a disease caused by the uncontrolled division and spread of cells in the body. Oncology adopts a multidisciplinary approach to combating different types of cancer and ensures that patients achieve the best possible treatment outcomes.
Why is it done?
Oncology is used in the treatment and management of various types of cancer:
- Cancer Diagnosis: Early diagnosis of cancer is critical to the success of the treatment process. Oncology uses various tests and biopsies to determine the type, stage, and extent of cancer spread.
- Cancer Treatment: Oncological treatments are customized according to the type and stage of cancer. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapies, and targeted therapies.
- Treatment Planning: Oncology specialists create personalized treatment plans and monitor the patient's overall health throughout the treatment process.
- Palliative Care: Provides palliative care services to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with advanced-stage cancer.
Treatment Methods
The main treatment methods used in oncology are as follows:
- Surgery: The surgical removal of cancerous tissue or a tumor. Surgery can be a crucial step in treating cancer.
- Surgery: The surgical removal of cancerous tissue or a tumor. Surgery can be a crucial step in cancer treatment.
- Radiotherapy: A method of destroying cancerous cells by applying high-energy radiation to them. Radiotherapy is generally used for localized cancers.
- Immunotherapies: Treatment methods used to make the immune system more effective against cancer cells.
- Targeted therapies: Drugs and treatments developed to target specific characteristics of cancer cells.
- Hormone Therapy: Treating hormone-sensitive cancers by regulating hormone levels.
Treatment Process
Assessment: After a cancer diagnosis, the patient’s overall health and the stage of the cancer are assessed. Various tests, screenings, and biopsies are performed during this stage.
Treatment Plan: Oncology specialists prepare a customized treatment plan based on the patient’s condition and the type of cancer. The treatment plan may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or other methods.
Treatment Implementation: The chosen treatment methods are applied. Regular monitoring and evaluations are conducted throughout the treatment process.
Monitoring and Follow-up: After treatment, the patient’s condition is regularly monitored. The response to treatment is evaluated, and the treatment plan is updated if necessary.
Palliative Care: For patients with advanced-stage cancer, palliative care services are provided to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Results
Oncology treatments play a crucial role in the treatment and management of cancer. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods, it is possible to control cancer and improve the quality of life for patients.
Risks and Complications
Cancer treatment can involve certain risks and side effects. These may include treatment-related complications, risk of infection, fatigue, and other health problems. During oncological treatment, guidance from an experienced oncologist is crucial to minimize these risks and achieve the best possible outcome.