Question 1

Who is an oncologist?

Accepted Answer

An oncologist is a physician with specialization in diagnosing, treating and providing care to patients who have cancer of any tissue or organ.

Question 2

What are the different branches in oncology?

Accepted Answer

The different branches of oncology are: 
(1) medical oncology, who treats cancer using chemotherapy
(2) surgical oncology, perform surgical procedures to remove tumour
(3) radiation oncology, provide radiation therapy
(4) gynecologic oncology, treat gynecologic cancer
(5) pediatric oncology, specialist of disease in children
(6) haematologist-oncology, treats blood cancer

Question 3

What is the difference between a clinical and medical oncologist?

Accepted Answer

A medical oncologist provides treatment of cancer using systematic therapy (chemotherapy, hormone therapy and biological agents), whereas a clinical oncologist uses a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Question 4

What kind of training does an oncologist get?

Accepted Answer

Training as an oncologist involves four years of medical school for bachelors degree (MBBS) followed by a residency period and a post-graduate degree in oncology. The post-graduation degree may be MD in medicine/paediatrics, with a DM in medical oncology or MD in radiotherapy.

Question 5

Does an oncologist perform surgeries for cancer treatment?

Accepted Answer

A surgical oncologist, who has got training at surgical procedures can perform surgery to remove tumours.

Question 6

Can an oncologist give chemotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, medical and clinical oncologists, who have specialized training can give chemotherapy to treat cancer.

Question 7

Does an oncologist give radiation therapy for treatment of cancer?

Accepted Answer

Yes, radiation therapy can be given by a clinical oncologist for the non-surgical treatment of cancer.

Question 8

What to expect when you first time visit an oncologist?

Accepted Answer

At your first visit to an oncologist, he will ask you about your health condition and symptoms. He will conduct a detailed physical examination. He may ask to do blood tests, and some imaging test if required.

Question 9

What tests does an oncologist do to diagnose cancer?

Accepted Answer

Oncologists can diagnose signs of physical abnormalities that may indicate cancer with a physical examination. Some cancers can be detected using blood tests, imaging tests like CT scan, MRI or ultrasound. To confirm the type and grade of cancer, they may perform a biopsy.

Question 10

Does an oncologist treat breast cancer?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a medical oncologist can treat breast cancer. He knows how the disease behaves and spreads to other parts of the body and may use chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormonal therapy for treatment of the same.

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Mumbai

General Physician

Vileparle West

Dr. Avinash Deo

Dr. Avinash Deo

General Physician

28 Years Experience Overall

Mahim, Mumbai

S L Raheja Fortis Hospital

Vileparle West, Mumbai

Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital

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