Everything You Need to Know About Oncologists

Who are Oncologists?

Cancer is one of the life-threatening diseases. It involves abnormal growth of cells inside the body. These cells multiply and start damaging the tissues, often leading to the development of conditions like multiple organ dysfunction and eventually damage.

Doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer are called oncologists. Oncologists prescribe the patients to undergo a series of pathology tests to diagnose the exact type of cancer the patient is suffering from and the stage it has reached. After this, they devise a treatment plan comprising of a combination of therapies.

It is important that when the first sign and symptom of cancer appears, the patient refers to experienced and good oncologists such as Dr PK Das. The highly experienced oncologists and cancer specialists will duly fulfil their responsibilities which include:

• Advising patients everything about cancer and its stages
• Explaining the treatment options available
• Keeping patients comfortable during this hard time by providing compassionate care
• Helping patients managing the symptoms and side effects
• Following-up with patients even after the treatment is over

Three Types of Oncologists

1. Medical Oncologists

Medical Oncologists are the specialists that treat and manage cancer using non-surgical methods which include chemotherapy, biologic therapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. Medical oncologists coordinate with other departments to devise the best treatment plans for the patients. They also monitor and maintain the well-being of patient post-treatment by providing them with regular check-ups.

2. Surgical Oncologists

Surgical oncologists are basically surgeons. They perform procedures like biopsies to diagnose cancer. In a biopsy, a small part of the affected tissues is removed and examined for cancer. If the biopsy confirms cancer and effective treatment plan is developed which might involve removal of the tumour or cancer-affected tissues.

3. Radiation Oncologists

Radiation oncologists use external and internal radiation therapy to treat cancer. External radiation therapy involves the use of a high-energy photon beam to kill the cancer cells. Patients given Internal Radiation therapy are given radioactive materials like radioactive iodine. This radioactive material is swallowed, injected, or implanted.

When patients get to know that they are suffering from cancer, they may experience stress. In this situation, a cancer specialists and oncologists, besides treating cancer, will also try to counsel them to stay strong and positive which is as important as good medical care.