Oncology around the world

Oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with malignant tumors. Based on recent research conducted by International Agency for Research on Cancer, 12.8 million people need cancer care (1.1 million in the USA, 980.000 in the U.K., 2.7 million in China, and 2.5 million in Russia). Most commonly diagnosed cancers affect lungs (13% of all cases), female breasts and prostate in men (9% each of all cases), and colorectal area (8% of all cases).

Most common causes for tumors and cancers cover:

genetic factors
poor immune system
obesity
smoking
excessive exposure to sun
etc

Nowadays, there exist various types of cancer treatment including:

chemotherapy
radiation and proton therapy
targeted therapy (virotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, etc)
surgery
transplantation
etc

After the course of treatment, many oncology patients refer to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) such as mind-body medicines (yoga, meditation), bio-practices (herbs, diets), body-based practices (massage, chiropractic care), medical systems (Chinese medicine, homeopathy) etc.

5 questions to ask your oncologist during your first appointment at an overseas clinic:

What type of cancer am I diagnosed with?
Is the tumor spreading?
What is the stage of my cancer?
What experience do you have in treating this particular type of cancer?
What are my treatment options?

Medical travelers reading this article often inquire about ophthalmology and orthopedics.