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Oncologist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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oncologist

[ษ’ล‹หˆkษ’lษ™dส’ษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical profession

An oncologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Their expertise encompasses various aspects of cancer care, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and tumor management. Oncologists work closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans aimed at fighting cancer and improving quality of life. They also engage in cancer research and clinical trials to discover new therapies.

Synonyms

cancer specialist, oncology physician.

Examples of usage

  • The oncologist recommended a new treatment plan.
  • After the diagnosis, she made an appointment with an oncologist.
  • The oncologist discussed the side effects of the medication.
  • He is currently seeing an oncologist for his ongoing treatment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The first known usage of specific cancer treatments dates back to ancient Egypt, but oncology as a discipline emerged in the late 1800s.
  • Modern advancements, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, significantly evolved during the 20th century, with the 1970s being a pivotal time for cancer research.

Science

  • Oncologists often use various diagnostic tools, including imaging tests like CT scans and MRIs, to determine the presence and extent of cancer.
  • They specialize in different subfields, such as medical oncology (drug treatment), surgical oncology (removal of tumors), and radiation oncology (use of radiation).

Pop Culture

  • Oncologists have appeared in numerous films and TV shows, often depicted as dedicated individuals fighting against cancer, highlighting the human side of medicine.
  • Notable portrayals include the character Dr. Sandra Lee, also known as Dr. Pimple Popper, who addresses skin cancers through her media platforms.

Psychology

  • Providing a cancer diagnosis can lead to significant emotional stress for patients, and oncologists often provide not just medical support but also emotional care.
  • The relationship between an oncologist and their patient can profoundly impact treatment outcomes; emotional support has been shown to enhance recovery.

Origin of 'oncologist'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'oncology' comes from the Greek word 'onkos,' meaning 'mass' or 'tumor,' and 'logia' meaning 'study.'
  • It was first used in the late 19th century, highlighting the growing interest and specialization in cancer treatment.

The term 'oncologist' originates from the Greek word 'onkos', meaning 'mass' or 'tumor', combined with the suffix '-logist', which refers to a specialist in a particular field of study. The use of the term began to gain traction in the early 20th century as the field of cancer research and treatment developed. Initially, cancer treatment was rudimentary and often based on the surgical removal of tumors. With advancements in medicine, the role of oncologists evolved to include the use of chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy as part of comprehensive cancer care. Today, oncologists play a crucial role in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide the best possible outcomes for patients battling cancer.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,983 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.