What does the field of oncology study?

Oncology is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses specifically on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This field encompasses a variety of aspects, including the prevention, detection, diagnosis, and management of different types of cancer. Oncologists, the medical professionals who specialize in this field, work to provide comprehensive care for patients, which may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and supportive care to address the specific needs of individuals diagnosed with cancer. The emphasis on cancer also extends to research and the development of new therapies aimed at improving patient outcomes and survival rates.

In contrast to other fields mentioned in the answer choices, oncology does not primarily address nutrition, aging, or infectious diseases. These areas are distinct fields of study in medicine that focus on different aspects of health and disease, such as the role of diet in overall health, the biological and physiological changes associated with aging, or the mechanisms of infectious diseases. Thus, the focus of oncology on cancer diagnosis and treatment makes it a vital specialty within the medical field.