What is Oncology?
Oncology is the branch of medicine dedicated to the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer. Developing a trusted and positive relationship with your oncologist is important for patients who are at risk for, currently battling, or have survived mesothelioma or other lung-related disease. Oncology covers a wide range of medical areas, including advanced cancer research, risk evaluation, diagnosis, and customized treatment plans.
For people and families facing mesothelioma or other forms of asbestos-related cancer, oncologists will act as key figures in their medical care journey as they will guide them through the complexities of their diagnosis and treatment journey. This article will explore oncology as it relates to mesothelioma and simply answer, “What is an oncologist?”.
Whether you’re facing symptoms of mesothelioma, seeking a diagnosis, or navigating post-treatment care, an oncologist is an important ally. Understanding their role will help you make informed decisions, manage your health effectively, and prepare for the challenges ahead.
What Does an Oncologist Do?
An oncologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Oncologists can play several roles throughout the cancer journey. This person may help diagnose cancer, provide treatment options, oversee treatment, and manage post-treatment care. Discover the types of oncologists, their specialties, and how an oncologist could assist if you are experiencing mesothelioma cancer symptoms or are in search of an expert.
Why Would a Doctor Send You to an Oncologist?
Your primary care physician might refer you to an oncologist for several reasons, all of which are aimed at ensuring you receive the specialized care needed for your situation. If you have risk factors like a family history of cancer, genetic predispositions, or significant exposure to carcinogens such as asbestos, an oncologist can help assess your risk, monitor your health, and implement preventive strategies. If you have already been diagnosed with cancer by another healthcare provider, the oncologist will take over your care, guiding you through treatment options, developing a personalized plan, and coordinating your overall care to provide comprehensive support.
In some cases, your doctor may refer you to an oncologist if you are experiencing symptoms that could indicate cancer, such as unexplained weight loss or abnormal imaging results. The oncologist will conduct further tests to determine if cancer is present and, if so, identify its type and stage to develop an appropriate treatment strategy. It’s important to note that being referred to an oncologist does not automatically mean you have cancer; rather, it means your doctor wants to ensure you receive the specialized attention needed to make informed decisions about your health.
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Types of Oncologists
Because there are several aspects of cancer, there are also different types of oncologists. There are three primary types of oncologists who specialize in certain treatments: medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists. Although these doctors all specialize in oncology, they help to treat cancer in different ways, and you may see just one or all of them during cancer treatment:
1) Medical Oncologists
This form of oncologist specialist treats cancer through different types of medication. Medications that medical oncologists use include chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted treatments. Many forms of cancer medicine are used in conjunction with other treatments such as surgery and radiation.
2) Radiation Oncologists
Radiation oncologists treat cancer through radiation therapy. This form of therapy uses high-energy x-rays to fight and kill cancer cells. Doctors can use radiation therapy as both curative and palliative treatment as it can shrink tumors and make a patient more comfortable. Another name for a radiation specialist is a dosimetrist.
3) Surgical Oncologists
A surgical oncologist treats cancer using surgery. A surgical oncologist may perform a biopsy to help diagnose cancer. After receiving a diagnosis, typical cancer surgery includes the removal of any tumors and surrounding tissues. Cancer surgeons help you prepare and recover from surgery.
Other Specialized Oncologists
Aside from those that specialize in radiation, medicine, and surgery, oncologists can also specialize in types of cancer. Doctors can specialize in cancer by tumor location such as gynecologic, thoracic, and urologic. Additionally, some oncologists specialize in cancers classified by their patient’s age such as geriatric and pediatric oncologists.
Breast Oncologists
Breast oncologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. They work closely with patients throughout their cancer journey, from initial diagnosis to post-treatment care. Breast oncologists are skilled in various treatment modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
Geriatric Oncologists
Geriatric oncologists focus on providing care to older adults with cancer. They are equipped to address the unique challenges and complexities that often accompany cancer in the elderly population. This includes managing age-related medical conditions, optimizing treatment plans, and ensuring a high quality of life for older patients.
Gynecologic Oncologists
Gynecologic oncologists specialize in the treatment of cancers affecting the female reproductive system. They diagnose and treat a variety of gynecological cancers, including ovarian, cervical, endometrial, and vulvar cancers. Gynecologic oncologists employ a range of treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapies.
Hematologist Oncologists
Hematologist oncologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers affecting the blood and bone marrow, including leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. They have expertise in understanding the biology of blood cancers and are skilled in using targeted therapies and bone marrow transplants.
Neuro-Oncologists
Neuro-oncologists focus on the diagnosis and treatment of cancers that affect the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. Neuro-oncologists utilize a variety of imaging techniques, surgical procedures, and radiation therapies to treat these complex cancers.
Pediatric Oncologists
Pediatric oncologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in children and adolescents. They have expertise in understanding the unique challenges and needs of young patients and their families. Pediatric oncologists work closely with children and their families to develop individualized treatment plans and provide emotional support throughout the cancer journey.
Thoracic Oncologists
Thoracic oncologists focus on the diagnosis and treatment of cancers that affect the chest region, including the lungs and esophagus. This includes lung cancer, esophageal cancer, and pleural mesothelioma. Thoracic oncologists employ a variety of treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
Urologic Oncologists
Urologic oncologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers that affect the genitourinary system. This includes cancers of the bladder, kidneys, prostate, testicles, and penis. Urologic oncologists utilize a variety of treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapies.
The Importance of Doctor-Patient Relationship
A strong doctor-patient relationship is important in anyone’s mesothelioma care. Open communication, trust, and mutual respect are vital for effective treatment and support. By understanding your individual goals and concerns, your oncologist can tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs. Open communication ensures you fully understand your diagnosis, treatment options, and potential side effects, empowering you to make informed decisions.
A supportive relationship can provide emotional comfort and reassurance, helping you cope with the emotional aspects of mesothelioma. Trust and support can also increase your adherence to treatment plans, leading to better outcomes. Building a strong relationship with your oncologist can optimize your mesothelioma care and improve your overall well-being.
What Should I Expect During My Visit to an Oncologist?
During your first visit to an oncologist, especially if you are experiencing possible mesothelioma symptoms, you can expect a comprehensive consultation aimed at determining whether cancer is present and, if so, providing a diagnosis. This initial appointment typically includes a thorough physical exam, a discussion of your medical and family history, and a series of tests such as bodily fluid analyses and imaging tests like CT scans. The evaluation will also consider any risk factors that may have contributed to the development of cancer, such as asbestos exposure in the case of mesothelioma.
If you’re starting with a general oncologist, they will guide you through the initial steps of your care. Depending on the results of your tests and the stage of your mesothelioma, you may be referred to specialists who focus on your specific type of cancer. For those needing assistance in finding an oncologist or understanding the role of oncology in their cancer journey, Mesothelioma Hub offers resources and guidance, including a free mesothelioma guide to help you navigate your options.