Oncology is the science of cancer, its diagnosis and treatment. Methods include advanced imaging and molecular biology. Treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy and innovative therapies such as immunotherapy. The aim is to tailor effective treatments to increase survival and improve quality of life for cancer patients. Collaboration between different medical fields is essential to meet the complex challenges of oncology.
Oncology is the study of tumour diseases. The unit of Oncology has existed at Umeå University since 1959 and is currently housed in buildings 10, 3M and 6M, Norrland University Hospital. We work closely with the Oncology Clinic, which is the largest clinic for oncological treatment of tumour diseases in Norrland. At the clinic, tumour diseases are treated with different types of modalities, ranging from radiotherapy, medical chemotherapy, antibody treatment and biological treatment. The clinic also has a psychosocial unit and a family cancer clinic where families with suspected hereditary cancer are investigated.
In oncology, we conduct research and development work in many different areas. The Oncology Research Laboratory conducts experimental research on brain tumours (glioma) and prostate cancer, among others. The radiotherapy department is constantly developing to achieve better and more precise treatments. This research is carried out in close co-operation with radiophysics and diagnostic radiology.
We also have a clinical research unit where patient-centred clinical studies are conducted. New treatment methods are evaluated here, as well as new medical preparations for cancer treatment.
In the early 1960s, the Jubileumskliniken research fund was established in Umeå, which is now called Cancerforskningsfonden Norrland. A few years later, Lions joined the fund. The Lions clubs in the Polar and Nord districts collect money under the name Lions Cancer Research Fund. Twice a year, funds are allocated to cancer research after assessment by a research committee and a decision by the board of the Norrland Cancer Research Fund.
