What is Medical Oncology?

What does an oncologist do?

An oncologist is a doctor specializing in medical oncology, responsible for preventing, diagnosing, and treating abnormal cell formations. The oncologist explains the patient's illness, outlines available treatment options, and prescribes palliative care to relieve symptoms. The oncologist ensures the overall care of the patient with cancer, following them throughout the disease's progression, including performing surgery if necessary. Generally, a patient is followed by several different specialists, which may include several oncologists. Indeed, an oncologist can specialize in many areas: neuro-oncology (tumors of the nervous system); gynecological oncology (tumors of the female genital tract); dermatological oncology (skin tumors); pediatric oncology (childhood tumors); or general oncology.

When to consult an oncologist?

The initial visit to an oncologist aims to assess the disease. Generally, people are referred to an oncologist by another specialist who suspects a tumor. The symptoms of a neoplasm often overlap with other disorders, leading patients to initially see other doctors. If cancer treatment is necessary, the first visit is followed by a series of check-ups during treatment (reassessment visits) to monitor treatment results and make adjustments as needed. At the first visit, bring previous medical records. It's recommended that the patient be accompanied for support due to potential anxiety, stress, or discouragement, and to aid in information retention.

The oncology examination requires no special preparation, but the patient may need to undress, so comfortable clothing is advisable. If the condition affects the skin, avoid makeup, sunscreen, or colored contact lenses (which can obscure moles). Women should schedule the examination outside of menstruation to allow for proper examination of nevi and abnormal spots in the genital area. Ideally, schedule the examination at least 3 days after the end of menstrual flow and 7 days before the next.

The visit begins with a medical history, including questions about symptoms and onset, pre-existing or current illnesses, family history of cancer, and risk factors. The oncologist may then perform a physical examination, potentially including auscultation (using a stethoscope to listen to the chest and back for breathing and heart abnormalities), and palpation of lymph nodes (neck, armpits, abdomen, and groin) to check for swelling. Finally, the doctor will outline necessary examinations. Prepare questions beforehand.

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What is a health check-up?

A health check-up is a series of examinations and diagnostic tests providing a comprehensive assessment of overall health. Check-ups are crucial for early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of serious illnesses.

Tumors may not always present symptoms, especially in early stages. Regular check-ups with a general practitioner and specialists are strongly recommended.

Screening is highly effective for secondary cancer prevention, reducing mortality significantly in some cases (e.g., lung cancer). Screening recommendations vary by age and location:

• Annual dermatological check-up, all ages;
• Breast cancer screening for women aged 45 to 74, every two years;
• Colorectal cancer screening for ages 50 to 70 (stool test for occult blood), every 2 years;
• Urinary and urogenital cancer screening for men annually after age 40;
• Cervical cancer screening for women aged 25 to 33 (Pap test, every 3 years) and 34 to 64 (HPV test, every 5 years);

Regular check-ups are particularly recommended:

• History of tumors (malignant or benign);
• Family history of cancer (genetic predisposition);
• Infection with certain pathogens (e.g., Helicobacter pylori, HBV, HCV, HPV, Epstein-Barr virus);
• Other risk factors (sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, alcohol, smoking, sun exposure, radiation exposure);

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