Medical Oncology
Systemic cancer therapies, tailored for a woman's body and biology.
Medical oncology lies at the heart of modern cancer care; an ever-evolving specialty that goes far beyond treatment. It spans diagnosis, therapy, long-term support, and survivorship, meeting the growing cancer burden with precision, innovation, and compassion.
At Apollo Athenaa Women’s Cancer Centre, medical oncology is not just about chemotherapy. It’s about personalised treatment plans, designed using the latest scientific tools and tailored to each patient’s biology, condition, and life goals. And because cancer is complex, our expert medical oncologists work as part of multidisciplinary tumor boards, collaborating with surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, genetic counsellors, and support teams. This ensures evidence-based, whole-person care at every stage.
With the rise of precision oncology, we use advanced techniques like genomic profiling, predictive biomarkers, and liquid biopsies to guide targeted therapies — be it chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy, or targeted drugs — achieving better outcomes for both localised and advanced cancers.
As cancer treatments advance at an unprecedented pace, the role of the medical oncologist has never been more critical. They are not only the navigators of complex therapies but also the unwavering anchors of support for patients and their families. At Apollo Athenaa, medical oncology is where science meets humanity, where every decision is guided by data, and every action by compassion.
Treatment Options
Our expert medical oncology team offers a range of advanced therapies, each carefully chosen based on your cancer type, stage, and unique biology.
Precision Oncology
Precision oncology is a new, innovative approach to cancer treatment that tailors therapies based on the unique genetic and molecular profile of an individual’s tumour. Unlike traditional methods that categorise cancers by their location, precision oncology focuses on identifying specific genetic mutations driving tumour growth, enabling more targeted and effective treatments.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of medications that target the rapidly dividing cancer cells. Depending on the type, stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, chemotherapy can be administered either alone or in combination with surgery, radiotherapy or the newer targeted therapies and immunotherapy.
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Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy offers a more precise, effective approach with lesser side effects compared to traditional therapies like chemotherapy. It interferes with specific molecular pathways or genetic mutations that drive cancer growth and survival, and halts tumour progression with greater specificity and often fewer side effects.
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Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy harnesses the power of the body’s own immune system to recognise, attack, and eliminate abnormal cells. Cancer cells develop mechanisms to evade immune detection by suppressing immune responses. Immunotherapy disrupts these mechanisms, thereby reactivating immune cells to seek out and destroy cancer cells.
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Hormonal Therapy
Hormonal therapy is also known as endocrine therapy and plays a pivotal role in the management of hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast cancer. Many cancers depend on hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone for growth and proliferation. Hormonal therapy works by either lowering the levels of these hormones in the body or blocking their action on cancer cells.
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Antibody Drug Conjugates
Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) are one of the most exciting advancements in precision oncology. These sophisticated therapies combine the targeting ability of monoclonal antibodies with the cancer-killing power of cytotoxic drugs. By delivering chemotherapy directly to cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue, ADCs offer a new level of precision.
Palliative Care
Palliative therapy focuses on relieving symptoms, improving quality of life, and supporting patients through the emotional, physical, and psychological challenges of cancer — regardless of the stage of disease. Contrary to common belief, palliative therapy is not limited to end-of-life care. It is an essential component of modern cancer treatment, integrated alongside curative or disease-controlling therapies from the time of diagnosis in many cases.
Our Experts
Dr. Jyoti Wadhwa
(Designation)
With over 25 years of experience in oncology, Dr. Jyoti Wadhwa is a nationally renowned cancer specialist known for her expertise in precision oncology and comprehensive cancer care. A graduate and postgraduate from AIIMS, New Delhi, she brings global training, academic leadership, and compassionate clinical practice to her role. Her special interests include breast and gynecological cancers, gastrointestinal malignancies, and cancer prevention through lifestyle and screening.
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Medical Oncology in Cancers Affecting Women
Medical oncology plays a vital role in the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care of breast and gynaecological cancers, which account for a significant share of the global cancer burden. Medical oncologists not only deliver life-saving therapies but also provide holistic, future-focused care.
In breast cancer, advances in precision oncology and other therapies have made many cases manageable long term. Treatment is personalised based on tumour biology, such as hormone receptor status, HER2 expression, and genomics, to balance effectiveness with quality of life.
In ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancers, medical oncologists manage systemic therapies like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and PARP inhibitors, often guiding care beyond surgery into maintenance and follow-up.
Medical oncology also strongly advocates prevention and early detection — from HPV vaccination and pap smears to breast screening. For younger women, there is support for fertility preservation and long-term survivorship, addressing issues like early menopause, bone health, mental well-being, and body image.
As leaders in clinical research, medical oncologists also bring access to innovative therapies through clinical trials. Landmark innovations such as the use of CDK4/6 inhibitors in metastatic breast cancer and immunotherapy in gynaecological cancers, have been made possible by their commitment to advancing science and patient care.
Continuum of Cancer Care
Cancer care is not a series of isolated steps. It begins with screening and lifestyle interventions that help reduce risk and detect cancer early. Once diagnosed, patients enter active treatment, where medical oncologists lead systemic therapies, working alongside surgeons and radiation specialists in a multidisciplinary approach.
Care doesn’t end after treatment. The survivorship phase focuses on recovery, monitoring recurrence, managing long-term effects, and improving quality of life. For those with advanced disease, the journey includes palliative and end-of-life care, where the goal is comfort, dignity, and support.
At every stage, medical oncology ensures continuity, compassion, and personalised care; so that no patient walks this journey alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does a medical oncologist do?
A medical oncologist specialises in diagnosing cancer and managing treatment using systemic therapies like precision oncology, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and hormonal therapy. They also play a key role in patient counseling, survivorship, and ongoing care.
2. When should I see a medical oncologist?
You may be referred to a medical oncologist after a cancer diagnosis to discuss your treatment options. In some cases, they are also involved in evaluating suspicious findings or planning adjuvant therapy after surgery.
3. How is my treatment plan decided?
Your oncologist will consider the type, stage, and molecular profile of your cancer, as well as your age, health, and preferences. Treatment decisions are often discussed in a multidisciplinary tumor board for comprehensive planning.
4. Will I need chemotherapy?
Not always. Depending on your cancer type and biology, you may be treated with targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery or hormonal therapy instead. Chemotherapy is recommended only when it is the most effective option.
5. What are the side effects of cancer treatment?
Side effects vary based on the treatment type. They may include fatigue, nausea, hair loss, reduced immunity, or hormonal changes. Your oncologist will guide you in managing and minimizing these effects.
6. Can I work or travel during treatment?
Many patients continue daily activities during treatment with some adjustments. It depends on the treatment intensity, your response, and energy levels. Always check with your care team before travel.
7. How often will I need to visit the hospital?
Frequency depends on your treatment schedule; some therapies are weekly, others once every 3–4 weeks. During follow-up, visits may reduce to every few months.
8. Is cancer treatment covered by insurance?
Most standard cancer therapies are covered by insurance, but coverage may vary by policy. It’s best to consult your hospital's insurance coordinator.
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