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Oncology is a medical specialty focused on the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer. Practiced by oncologists, this field addresses several key aspects:

  • Diagnosis of cancer through various medical evaluations (pathology)
  • Treatment modalities including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and other options
  • Follow-up care for cancer patients after successful treatment
  • Palliative care for those with terminal cancers
  • Addressing ethical dilemmas in cancer care
  • Screening for cancer in populations and at-risk family members, particularly for hereditary cancers like breast cancer.

Etymologically, the term oncology comes from the Greek word "ὄγκος" (ónkos), meaning "tumor," reflecting its focus on mass and tumor treatments.