Cancer

Oncology is the branch of medicine that is focused on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of tumours and cancers. Cancer occurs when cells start to grow and divide uncontrollably. The cell’s normal division process undergoes certain genetic changes that cause this to happen. These cells can create a mass (tumour) which may be benign or malignant. A benign tumour can grow but will not spread to other parts of the body, while a malignant tumour will grow and spread. Certain types of cancer are not characterised by tumours which include leukaemia, lymphomas and myelomas.

Cancer spreads throughout the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system as they can carry cancer cells to other body parts. One of a cancer’s first destinations are the lymph nodes, the organ which defends the body from infection. They are located in the neck, groin, chest, abdomen and underarms.

Oncology encompasses three major fields: medical, surgical and radiation. Medical oncology deals with treatment methods, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy. Surgical oncology deals with biopsies and removal of tumours. Radiation oncology involves the use of radiation therapy to treat cancer.

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