An oncologist is trained to know exactly what to look for regarding the symptoms of cancer. She will know which tests must be conducted in order to make an accurate diagnosis. She will then be able to advise the best treatment for each type of cancer.

The oncologist may advise an individual treatment, or there may be a combination of different treatments available to the cancer sufferer. Due to the amount of research undertaken on the causes and treatments of cancer, new information is produced frequently. An oncologist must be fully aware of all new research and findings in the field of cancer.