Oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. A medical professional who practices oncology is an oncologist. The three components which have improved survival in cancer are:

• Prevention - This is by reduction of risk factors like tobacco and alcohol consumption
• Early diagnosis - Screening of common cancers and comprehensive diagnosis and stagin
• Treatment - Multimodality management by discussion in tumor board and treatment in a comprehensive cancer centre

Cancers are often managed through discussion on multi-disciplinary cancer conferences where medical oncologist, surgical oncologist, radiation oncologist, pathologist, radiologist and organ specific oncologists meet to find the best possible management for an individual patient considering the physical, social, psychological, emotional and financial status of the patients. It is very important for oncologists to keep updated of the latest advancements in oncology, as changes in management of cancer are quite common.