Oncology

Oncology takes. Takes away loved ones, time and untapped potential. At Boehringer Ingelheim we are providing new hope for patients by taking cancer on. We are collaborating with the oncology community to deliver scientific breakthroughs to transform the lives of patients. Our primary focus is in lung and gastrointestinal cancers, with the goal of delivering breakthrough, first-in-class treatments that can help win the fight against Oncology. Our commitment to innovation has resulted in pioneering treatments for lung cancer and we are advancing a unique pipeline of cancer cell directed agents, immune oncology therapies and intelligent combination approaches to help combat many cancers.

An oncologist manages a patient’s care throughout the course of the disease. This starts with the diagnosis. His or her role includes:

• Explaining the cancer diagnosis and stage
• Talking about all treatment options and his or her preferred choice
• Delivering quality and compassionate care
• Helping a patient manage the symptoms and side effects of cancer and cancer treatment.

Different types of doctors often work together to create a patient’s overall treatment plan that combines different types of treatments. For instance, a patient may need treatment with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. This is called a multidisciplinary team.

Cancer care teams also include a variety of other health care professionals:

• A pathologist reads laboratory tests. This includes checking cells, tissues, and organs to diagnose disease
• A diagnostic radiologist conducts imaging tests to diagnose disease. This includes x-rays or ultrasound tests.
• An oncology nurse
• An oncology social worker

The team may also involve doctors from other areas of medicine. For instance, a dermatologist who specializes in skin problems may also help treat skin cancer.