Introduction of “Oncology” as a clinical discipline in the English-speaking world

Abstract

Cancer patients in the past had been treated by various clinical specialists, according to their training 
and knowledge. As it was realized that they are better treated by a multidisciplinary team of specialists, 
several prominent Cancer Surgeons in London UK, conceived of bringing management of cancer under 
one clinical discipline. The word “Oncology “was imported from Soviet Russia to Hammersmith 
Hospital in London. Cancer Surgeons in London quickly realized the potential of the word “Oncology. 
With their initiative “British Association of Surgical Oncology” was formed in 1973 in London. From 
there the concept of “Oncology” as a clinical discipline spread to the rest of the English speaking world 
and elsewhere.