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What an oncologist does

An oncologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats cancer. There are three main branches: medical oncologists (chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy), surgical oncologists (cancer surgery) and radiation oncologists (radiotherapy). Training is MBBS followed by MD/MS and a super-specialty DM, MCh or DNB, or MD in Radiotherapy. Cancer care is delivered by a team and many hospitals hold a "tumour board" where specialists decide together.

Cancer is a leading cause of illness in India. Common cancers include breast, cervical, oral, lung, colorectal, stomach and prostate cancer. Early detection greatly improves the chance of cure, and many cancers, such as oral and cervical cancers, can be caught early or prevented.

Warning signs to act on

• A lump in the breast, neck or elsewhere that does not go away.
• A mouth ulcer or white or red patch that does not heal in three weeks.
• Unexplained weight loss, persistent fever or night sweats.
• Blood in stool, urine, sputum or abnormal vaginal bleeding.
• Persistent cough, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or change in bowel habit.
• A mole that changes in size or colour.

These symptoms are often due to non-cancerous causes, but they should be evaluated promptly.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis rests on examination, imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI, PET-CT), and a biopsy to confirm cancer type. Blood tests and tumour markers such as CA 125, CA 15-3, PSA or CA 19-9 may help monitoring but cannot diagnose cancer alone. Screening — Pap smear, mammography, oral examination and colonoscopy — can detect cancer before symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment depends on cancer type and stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy, often in combination. Supportive and palliative care for symptoms and quality of life are part of treatment from the start. Costs vary widely; many hospitals accept insurance and Ayushman Bharat, and government cancer institutes offer subsidised care.

Choosing an oncologist

Look for the right sub-specialty, DM/MCh/DNB qualifications, a centre with multidisciplinary tumour boards and radiotherapy facilities, and seek a second opinion before major treatment. Consultation fees commonly range from about ₹800 to ₹2,500 and may vary. Compare oncologists and book on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.