Oncology deals with the study of cancer. So, an oncologist Newport Beach is a medical specialist who treats cancer and gives medical care to individuals with cancer. According to the American Cancer Society study, by the end of 2020, there were 1.8 million new cancer diagnoses. It means that, in the United States, cancer remains one of the leading deadly diseases. However, the survival rates continue to improve with advancements in cancer detection, medication, and management. Oncologists are helping greatly to change the situation in different areas. There are three major areas of oncology.
Medical oncology
Medical oncologists are specialists in treating and managing cancer by use of non-surgical techniques. They use targeted therapies, hormonal therapies, chemotherapies, and biologic therapies. Patients undergoing cancer treatments often go through medical oncologists. According to the National Cancer Institution, Medical oncologists serve as the primary healthcare providers for individuals suffering from cancer. Additionally, medical oncologists follow up with cancer patients even after they complete the treatment procedures.
Surgical oncology
Surgical oncologists are specialists in diagnosing, managing and treating cancer. After physicians identify cancerous cells in patients, they refer them to oncologists for further assessment and evaluation. The surgical oncologists can confirm the diagnosis and tell the stage of cancer. The surgical oncologists perform biopsies by extracting a small sample from the abnormal tissues and examining it, looking for any signs of cancerous cells. Then, the oncologists recommend different suitable treatment options.
Radiation oncology
Radiation oncologists are experts in conducting external and internal radiation therapies for cancer patients. External radiation therapy involves the use of high-energy photon beams meant to destroy cancer cells and to shrink the tumors. Internal radiation therapy comprises systemic treatment. Treatment is administered through swallowing, injection, or inserting radioactive elements like radioactive iodine. A patient receiving radiation therapy is likely to be subjected to other types of cancer treatment procedures.
