What is Oncology?
Oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer. The word "oncology" comes from the Greek word "onkos," which means "mass" or "tumor." Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by abnormal growth and proliferation of cells in the body. These cells can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs or spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Oncologists are medical specialists who specialize in the management of cancer patients.
History of Oncology
The history of oncology dates back to ancient times when cancer was first described by the Greek physician Hippocrates. However, it was not until the 19th century that significant progress was made in understanding the nature of cancer. In 1838, the German pathologist Rudolf Virchow proposed that all cancers originate from cells. This idea was later confirmed by other scientists, and it laid the foundation for modern oncology.
Causes of Cancer
Cancer is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the risk factors for cancer include:
- Age
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
- Poor diet and lack of physical activity
- Exposure to radiation
- Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins
- Family history of cancer
- Certain viruses, such as HPV and hepatitis B and C
Types of Cancer
There are more than 100 different types of cancer, which are classified based on the type of cell that is affected. Some of the most common types of cancer include:
- Breast cancer
- Lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Skin cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
Diagnosis of Cancer
The diagnosis of cancer usually involves a combination of tests, such as imaging studies, blood tests, and biopsy. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans, can help to identify the location and size of a tumor. Blood tests can detect certain markers that are associated with cancer. A biopsy involves the removal of a small sample of tissue from the affected area for examination under a microscope.
Treatment of Cancer
The treatment of cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease, as well as the patient's overall health. The main types of cancer treatment include:
- Surgery: the removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue
- Radiation therapy: the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells
- Chemotherapy: the use of drugs to kill cancer cells
- Immunotherapy: the use of drugs to stimulate the body's immune system to attack cancer cells
- Hormone therapy: the use of drugs to block the production of hormones that can stimulate the growth of certain types of cancer
Prevention of Cancer
There are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing cancer, such as:
- Quitting smoking
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting regular exercise
- Protecting the skin from the sun
- Getting vaccinated against certain viruses, such as HPV and hepatitis B
Challenges in Oncology
Despite significant progress in the field of oncology, there are still several challenges that need to be addressed. Some of the major challenges include:
- Early detection of cancer
- Personalized treatment for cancer patients
- Development of new and more effective cancer treatments
- Access to cancer care for underserved populations
- Palliative care for patients with advanced cancer
Oncology is a vital field of medicine that is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer. With continued research and development, there is hope that we can overcome the challenges that currently face the field of oncology.
Top Oncologist In Lincoln, NE, Nebraska
1. Dr. Paul E. Dadan, Lincoln Medical Oncology, 8150 O St #200, Lincoln, NE 68510
2. Dr. Michael E. Rau, Lincoln Medical Oncology, 8150 O St #200, Lincoln, NE 68510
3. Dr. Edward J. Porubsky, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
4. Dr. Alan J. Niedert, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
5. Dr. John D. Burch, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
6. Dr. Debra S. Geringer, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
7. Dr. Terrence M. Daly, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
8. Dr. Richard A. Boyer, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
9. Dr. Richard E. Stull, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
10. Dr. Mark A. Seim, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
11. Dr. Amy L. Vogt, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
12. Dr. Kenneth R. Mueller, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
13. Dr. David A. Cone, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
14. Dr. James L. Gress, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
15. Dr. Bruce J. Brodkey, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
16. Dr. Patrick W. Scanlon, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
17. Dr. Robert E. Baker, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
18. Dr. Thomas R. Martin, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
19. Dr. Robert A. Miller, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
20. Dr. William C. Wilcox, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
21. Dr. Sanjeev K. Ghei, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
22. Dr. Brian E. Gildea, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
23. Dr. Paul D. Sestak, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
24. Dr. Debra J. Gedney, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
25. Dr. Stephen B. Cohen, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
26. Dr. David R. Sullivan, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
27. Dr. Maria C. Vital, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
28. Dr. Kenneth H. Kienzle, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
29. Dr. John C. Haney, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
30. Dr. Robert A. Wahl, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
31. Dr. J. Scott Rice, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
32. Dr. Timothy S. Schaben, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
33. Dr. Jay A. Reiman, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
34. Dr. James W. Kvols, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
35. Dr. Robert T. Rhein, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
36. Dr. Timothy J. McCashland, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
37. Dr. David W. Case, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
38. Dr. Robert A. Swain, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
39. Dr. Stephen D. Smith, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
40. Dr. John H. Donahue, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
41. Dr. Larry M. Yee, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
42. Dr. G. Robert Wiedemann, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
43. Dr. Howard S. Stegall, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
44. Dr. Kenneth G. Johnson, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
45. Dr. Robert C. Winn, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
46. Dr. David S. Brown, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
47. Dr. Joseph C. Jackson, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
48. Dr. William L. Schmoekel, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
49. Dr. Jonathan D. Stuart, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
50. Dr. Eric C. McNeill, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
51. Dr. Thomas J. Whelan, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
52. Dr. Craig A. Clifton, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
53. Dr. Jeffrey P. McKeever, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
54. Dr. Alexander M. Dzurik, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
55. Dr. Steven B. Shaffer, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
56. Dr. Paul A. Anderson, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
57. Dr. Bruce A. Reimer, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
58. Dr. Jeffrey K. Apfelbaum, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
59. Dr. William C. Tucker, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
60. Dr. Raymond H. Loeffler, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
61. Dr. Gary J. Gordon, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
62. Dr. Paul J. Tietjen, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
63. Dr. Robert J. Ihde, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
64. Dr. Kenneth E. Hefner, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
65. Dr. Dennis W. Anderson, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
66. Dr. Michael S. Kornbluth, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
67. Dr. John B. Sylvester, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
68. Dr. Steven L. Rosenberg, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
69. Dr. Michael D. Hoskin, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
70. Dr. Steven A. Wolf, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
71. Dr. Steven A. Smith, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
72. Dr. Kenneth M. Street, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
73. Dr. Charles G. Wilke, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
74. Dr. Steven M. Horvat, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
75. Dr. Gregory A. Tannenbaum, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
76. Dr. Anthony J. Cincotta, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
77. Dr. Thomas E. Moore, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
78. Dr. Thomas J. O’Connor, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
79. Dr. Michael D. D’Angelo, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
80. Dr. Ronald J. Lehman, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
81. Dr. Joseph P. Buehler, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
82. Dr. Michael C. Janes, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
83. Dr. Robert A. Deveney, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
84. Dr. Charles A. Steed, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
85. Dr. Thomas S. Lane, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
86. Dr. Edward G. Chism, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
87. Dr. Robert D. Moore, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
88. Dr. David A. Fisher, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510
89. Dr. Matthew J. Stull, Nebraska Cancer Specialists, 8000 O St #400, Lincoln, NE 68510