An oncologist is a doctor who treats cancer and provides medical care for a person diagnosed with cancer. An oncologist may also be called a cancer specialist. The field of oncology has 3 major areas based on treatments:
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Medical Oncology
A medical oncologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating cancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy. The medical oncologist often is the main health care provider for someone who has cancer.
Oncology specialists focus on treating cancer in specific areas of the body. For example, gynaecologic oncologists treat uterine, ovarian, and cervical cancers, while a haematologist-oncologist focuses on blood cancers. There are also paediatric oncologists who specialise in cancers common in children and teenagers.
One will see a medical oncologist right after being diagnosed with cancer. This is usually one of the initial steps of cancer therapy. They will brief the details of the diagnosis as well as the timeline of cancer treatment.
Radiation Oncology
Radiation oncologists are the doctors who oversee radiation therapy treatments. These doctors work with the other members of the radiation therapy team to develop and prescribe the treatment plan and make sure that each treatment is given accurately.
Radiation oncologists treat cancer using radiation therapy, which is the use of high-energy x-rays or other particles to terminate cancer cells.
3 common types of internal radiation therapy include:
Surgical Oncology
Surgical oncologists are surgeons who have special training in carrying out biopsies and other surgical procedures in cancer patients, meaning, they use surgery to remove tumours.
One might be referred to a surgical oncologist if the growth of a tumour is detected. If the primary care doctor suspects one might have cancer, they can refer the patient to a surgical oncologist for a biopsy.
One of the Best Oncologists for Cancer Treatment
At SJMC, our oncologists are experienced and highly skilled to detect, diagnose and treat an individual with cancer or suspected cancer. Our doctors can treat various types of cancer in numerous parts of the patient's body. If you have cancer, our oncologist can make a treatment plan based on pathology reports.
What Happens When You First See A Cancer Specialist?
Here are some things that are helpful to discuss during your first appointment:
- What is my diagnosis, and how soon do I need to start therapy?
- What are my treatment options, what's involved, and how long will each treatment take?
- What are the benefits of the recommended treatment?
During your first appointment, an oncologist will pay special attention to your type of cancer and share which treatment possibilities fit your diagnosis. Knowing what to expect can make cancer treatment less stressful. Thereafter, it is the process of registering and filling out paperwork. Our specialist then assesses the existing medications and your medical, surgical and family history.
Our Clinical Oncology Doctors to Provide World-Leading Cancer Treatment in Malaysia
Combining an extensive understanding of oncology and vast, collective experience in diagnosing and carrying out procedures are valuable characteristics that our cancer specialists’ excellence is built upon in providing you with a comprehensive treatment and therapy solution.
Book an appointment with our clinical oncologists to have a comprehensive assessment, health screenings and solution for cancer treatment.