What specialty of medicine is focused on the treatment and study of cancer?

Oncology is the specialty of medicine that focuses on the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer. An oncologist is a medical professional who specializes in the treatment of cancer patients, employing a variety of methods including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical options. The field of oncology involves thorough research into the types of cancers, their behaviors, and how they can be effectively treated or managed, which is crucial given the complexities and variations in cancer types.

In contrast, the other specialties mentioned are distinctly different in their focus: ophthalmology pertains to eye care, obstetrics centers around pregnancy and childbirth, and orthopedics deals with issues related to the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, and muscles. Each of these fields has its own specific area of expertise that does not overlap with the study and treatment of cancer, underscoring why oncology is the correct answer to this question.