Medical Oncology
Medical oncology; is a highly specialized area within the medical field that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Oncologists who specialize in this field use a variety of treatment methods; including chemotherapy, hormonal and targeted therapy, to effectively manage and cure cancer in their patients. These treatments are carefully chosen for ensuring the best possible outcome.
In addition to treating cancer, medical oncologists also play a crucial role in managing the side effects of cancer treatment and providing supportive care for patients. This may involve managing pain, nausea, and fatigue, providing emotional support, and helping patients cope with the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment.
It’s important to note that, for many types of cancers the treatment consists of surgical methods if the cancer has not yet spread significantly. With these patients oncologists cooperate with surgeons to provide the most ideal treatment for the patient.
What Does a Medical Oncologist Do?
Medical oncologist is a doctor who specialized in the treatment of cancer by using medical treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy. The primary medical oncologist aimed to implement a treatment plan for each patient based on their needs and type of cancer they have. In addition to these, medical oncologists play a crucial role in managing the side effects of cancer treatments.
Common Cancer Types
Cancer is a group of diseases that affect millions of people worldwide and it comes in many forms. From breast cancer to lung cancer, each type of cancer is unique in its causes, symptoms and treatments. Cancer can develop in different parts of the body and is caused by abnormal cell growth. The types of cancer are classified based on the part of the body where it originates, and each type of cancer can have different characteristics, such as how fast it spreads and how it responds to treatments. Despite the differences between each type of cancer, early detection and treatment are crucial in improving outcomes for patients.
There are many different types of cancer but some of the most common include:
- Breast cancer: This is the most common type of cancer among women and affects the cells of the breast tissue. The most frequently observed symptom of breast cancer is the presence of new lump or mass however, it is important to note that most breast lumps are benign. A hard, painless mass with irregular edges is a potential indication of cancer, but it is also possible for breast cancers to present as soft, round, tender, or painful masses.
- Lung cancer: This form of cancer affects the cells of the lung. Early diagnosis of lung cancer is crucial as it may increase the chances of successful treatment. Symptoms of lung include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chess pain, loss of appetite, unexplained loss of weight, shortness of breath, feeling tired or weak, recurring infections, or new onset of wheezing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor immediately.
- Prostate cancer: It affects the cells of the prostate gland in men. Prostate cancer is often diagnosed by screening in its early stages. However, advanced prostate cancer may cause some symptoms such as urinary problems, blood in urine or semen, erectile dysfunction, pain in bones from cancer spread, weakness or numbness in legs or loss of bladder or bowel control from pressure on the spinal cord.
- Colorectal cancer: When the cells of the colon or rectum are affected, it is called colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer may be asymptomatic initially, however, if symptoms do occur,alterations in bowel patterns, persistent feelings of bowel urgency, rectal bleeding with vivid red blood, stool containing blood, abdominal cramping, tiredness, weakness, or unexplained weight loss can be observed.
- Leukemia: Leukemia is the medical term for blood cell cancer. Leukemia symptoms can vary based on the types of disease. Like fever, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, feeling tired, lymph nodes, unexplained bleeding are the most common signs of leukemia.
- Lymphoma: This type affects the immune system. Fever, swollen lymph nodes, unexplained weight loss are the common observed symptoms.
- Melanoma: This cancer affects the cells that produce pigment in the skin. Melanoma often manifests as a new mole or a change in the appearance of an existing mole, making it the first sign of the condition.
In addition to the above-mentioned forms of cancer, there is also a section of medical oncology called gynecologic oncology. Gynecologic oncology focuses on cancers concerning the female reproductive system: cancers of the cervix, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and vulva. Treatment options for gynecologic cancers may consist of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.
How is Cancer Treated in Medical Oncology?
Medical oncology provides various treatment and care options that are unique in their objectives and function. Oncologists analyze the patient and decide which treatment method is best for them. This decision may be made by looking at the type of cancer, the stage of cancer, etc. In some cases, treatment may even involve two or more treatments simultaneously.
Some common procedures and treatments in medical oncology include:
Chemotherapy
As a common form of cancer treatment, chemotherapy is the process of using medication and drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be administered in various ways, including orally, intravenously, or by injection. This treatment option is typically combined with oncological surgery or radiation therapy.
Radiation Therapy
In radiation therapy, high-energy rays are used to kill or eliminate cancer cells. Radiation is also used to shrink tumors. It can be administered externally, using a machine to deliver the radiation, or internally, using a tiny device placed inside the body near the cancerous tissue. Radiation therapy is usually a supportive treatment..Nuclear medicine specialists, surgeons and oncologists work together to plan sessions of radiation, chemotherapy and surgeries.
Targeted Therapy
This type of cancer treatment involves the use of drugs to target specific molecules that play a role in cancer cell growth and their subsequent spread. Targeted therapies are often used at the same time with other treatment options, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Palliative Care
This type of medical care focuses on making advanced cancer patients more comfortable and help them with symptom management. It is not intended to cure cancer but to improve the patient's quality of life by managing symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and nausea. Pain management is a very important part of patient care in oncological care.
Hormonal Therapy
This type of cancer treatment involves the use of drugs to block the effects of hormones which can fuel the growth of cancer cells. Hormonal therapy is often suggested and performed to treat cancers sensitive to hormones. A prime example of such cancer would be breast cancer.
Immunotherapy
In this cancer treatment, the immune system in the human body is utilized to fight cancer cells. Immunotherapies can stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells, or they can help to block the mechanisms that cancer cells use to evade the immune system.
Supportive Care
This is medical care that is focused on managing the side effects of cancer treatment and providing emotional support to patients. Supportive care can involve managing symptoms such as pain, nausea, and fatigue and providing counseling and other types of emotional support.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research and development studies which test new treatments and therapies in cancer patients. Clinical trials are an important way to improve the understanding of cancer and to develop new and more effective treatments. Participants in clinical trials may have the opportunity to try treatments that are not yet available to everyone. It's important to note that participation in a clinical trial is voluntary and that patients should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before deciding to participate.
The strategy for the treatment can vary depending on the stage as well as the type of cancer. Medical history will also play a vital role. Medical oncologists work closely with patients and their families to develop an individualized treatment plan most appropriate for each patient.
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Cancer is one of the most serious ailments in the world to go through without skilled medical help. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, it is important to seek the expertise of a medical oncologist as soon as possible. USHAŞ aims to assist you in finding the high-quality healthcare that you deserve in the scenic land of Türkiye. We have established HealthTürkiye as a facilitator of health tourism to serve you best.
