What is the profession focused on diagnosing and treating cancer?

Oncology is the branch of medicine that deals specifically with the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancer. It encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, including performing diagnostic tests to determine the presence and type of cancer, developing treatment plans which may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and providing ongoing care and support to patients throughout their cancer journey. Oncologists also engage in research to develop new treatments and improve patient outcomes.

Other medical specialties, while crucial in their respective fields, do not focus on cancer in the same way that oncology does. For example, cardiology deals with heart-related conditions, pediatrics focuses on the health of infants and children, and neurology concerns itself with disorders of the nervous system. Each of these specialties has a different scope and does not encompass the specific treatments and concerns that are unique to cancer care.