Medical Oncology Thesis Topics

Medical Oncology Thesis Topics

Medical oncology focuses on systemic anti-cancer therapy, precision oncology and multidisciplinary care of solid tumours and haematologic malignancies. This page lists 100 practical Medical Oncology thesis topics suitable for DM Medical Oncology residents in India as well as trainees in Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Arab Board oncology programmes and Saudi Commission–recognised cancer training.

The majority of titles below are framed as comparative clinical studies, supported by observational and cross sectional designs that are feasible in high-volume Indian and GCC oncology centres. They are search-optimised for Medical Oncology thesis topics, DM Oncology dissertation topics, GCC oncology research projects, Arab Board medical oncology thesis ideas and practical chemotherapy and immunotherapy research titles.

1. Breast Cancer Oncology

Comparative study of dose-dense anthracycline and taxane-based adjuvant chemotherapy versus standard-interval regimens in high-risk early breast cancer. This thesis compares disease-free survival, toxicity profiles and treatment delays between the two schedules in women treated at a tertiary care oncology centre.
Comparative study of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with taxane-based versus anthracycline-only regimens in locally advanced breast cancer. The project evaluates pathological complete response rates, breast conservation rates and toxicity in an Indian or Gulf Cooperation Council population.
Comparative study of aromatase inhibitor–based endocrine therapy versus tamoxifen in postmenopausal hormone receptor–positive early breast cancer. This research analyses musculoskeletal side effects, endometrial complications, lipid profile changes and adherence patterns.
Observational study of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive breast cancer patients receiving trastuzumab-based therapy. The thesis evaluates cardiac toxicity, treatment completion rates and real-world survival outcomes.
Comparative study of clinical outcomes in triple-negative breast cancer treated with anthracycline–taxane chemotherapy alone versus chemotherapy plus platinum agent where available. This project examines response rates, progression-free survival and haematologic toxicity.
Cross sectional analysis of molecular subtype distribution of breast cancer and association with stage at presentation. The study evaluates luminal, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 enriched and triple-negative patterns and their link to socio-demographic and risk factors.
Comparative study of neoadjuvant versus adjuvant chemotherapy in operable breast cancer with clinically positive axillary nodes. The research compares nodal downstaging, breast conservation rates and long-term outcomes.
Observational study of fertility preservation discussions and utilisation in young women with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy. This thesis explores counselling practices, patient preferences and barriers in Indian and Gulf contexts.
Comparative study of patient-reported quality of life in women undergoing breast-conserving surgery plus radiotherapy versus mastectomy with or without reconstruction. The project assesses body image, functional domains and treatment satisfaction using validated questionnaires.
Cross sectional study of awareness and adherence to oral endocrine therapy among hormone receptor–positive breast cancer survivors. This research examines reasons for non-adherence, adverse effect profiles and impact on follow-up outcomes.

2. Lung Cancer Oncology

Comparative study of platinum–pemetrexed versus platinum–taxane regimens in advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer. This thesis compares response rates, progression-free survival and toxicity profiles in routine clinical practice.
Comparative study of tyrosine kinase inhibitor monotherapy versus chemotherapy in epidermal growth factor receptor mutation–positive advanced non-small cell lung cancer. The project evaluates time to progression, symptom relief and treatment-related adverse events.
Observational study of programmed death-ligand 1 expression and its association with clinicopathological features in non-small cell lung cancer. This research correlates programmed death-ligand 1 status with smoking history, histology and stage at diagnosis.
Comparative study of concurrent versus sequential chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer where both strategies are used. The thesis compares disease control, toxicity and hospitalisation rates.
Cross sectional analysis of driver mutation spectrum in adenocarcinoma lung in Indian and Gulf Cooperation Council populations. This study documents epidermal growth factor receptor, anaplastic lymphoma kinase, ROS1 and other mutations and their clinical characteristics.
Comparative study of first-line immunotherapy-based regimens versus conventional chemotherapy in high programmed death-ligand 1 expressing advanced non-small cell lung cancer where immunotherapy is available. The project evaluates response rates, immune-related adverse events and early discontinuation.
Observational study of small cell lung cancer: treatment patterns, toxicity and survival outcomes in a tertiary oncology centre. This thesis analyses staging distribution, platinum-based regimens and radiotherapy utilisation.
Comparative study of symptom burden and quality of life in lung cancer patients receiving palliative chemotherapy versus best supportive care alone. The research uses validated symptom scales and survival data to examine benefit in real-world settings.
Cross sectional analysis of delays in diagnosis and staging of lung cancer and their impact on stage distribution. This study explores patient-related and health system–related causes of delay in Indian and Gulf settings.
Comparative study of cisplatin versus carboplatin-based chemotherapy in advanced lung cancer with focus on renal and haematologic toxicity. The project assesses treatment completion, dose reductions and clinical outcomes.

3. Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Oncology

Comparative study of oxaliplatin-based versus irinotecan-based first-line chemotherapy regimens in metastatic colorectal cancer. This thesis compares response rates, neuropathy, diarrhoea and progression-free survival.
Comparative study of perioperative chemotherapy versus adjuvant-only chemotherapy in resectable gastric cancer where both approaches are used. The project evaluates pathological response, postoperative complications and survival outcomes.
Observational study of programmed death-ligand 1 and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 status in gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancers. This research describes biomarker distribution and association with clinicopathologic features.
Comparative study of capecitabine-based oral chemotherapy versus infusional fluorouracil-based regimens in gastrointestinal cancers. The thesis assesses toxicity profiles, convenience, adherence and survival outcomes.
Cross sectional analysis of hepatitis B and hepatitis C infection in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in an Indian or Gulf Cooperation Council cohort. This study evaluates viral aetiology, cirrhosis status and stage at tumour detection.
Comparative study of sorafenib versus best supportive care in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma in centres where targeted therapy access is available. The project analyses survival, adverse events and quality of life.
Observational study of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery in locally advanced rectal cancer. This thesis evaluates pathological complete response, sphincter preservation and treatment-related toxicity.
Comparative study of adjuvant chemotherapy versus surveillance alone in stage II colon cancer with high-risk features. The research examines relapse patterns, treatment toxicity and overall survival.
Cross sectional analysis of nutritional status and cachexia in patients with advanced gastrointestinal malignancies receiving palliative chemotherapy. This study assesses body mass index, sarcopenia, appetite scores and their association with outcome.
Comparative study of modified versus standard-dose chemotherapy regimens in frail elderly patients with gastrointestinal cancers. The project evaluates tolerability, treatment completion and disease control.

4. Genitourinary Oncology

Comparative study of docetaxel-based chemotherapy plus androgen deprivation therapy versus androgen deprivation therapy alone in metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. This thesis compares progression-free survival, pain control and haematologic toxicity.
Comparative study of first-generation versus second-generation androgen receptor–targeted agents in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer where newer agents are available. The project evaluates prostate-specific antigen response, radiologic progression and quality of life.
Observational study of non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer recurrence and progression in patients receiving intravesical chemotherapy or immunotherapy. This research documents recurrence patterns, risk stratification and treatment completion.
Comparative study of cisplatin-based versus carboplatin-based chemotherapy in advanced urothelial carcinoma. The thesis examines renal toxicity, response rates and survival outcomes in real-world practice.
Cross sectional analysis of germ cell tumour presentations and outcomes in young males presenting to an Indian or Gulf Cooperation Council oncology centre. This study explores disease stage, tumour markers and chemotherapy response.
Comparative study of surveillance versus adjuvant chemotherapy in stage I testicular germ cell tumours. The research evaluates relapse rates, treatment-related toxicity and long-term quality of life.
Observational study of targeted therapy outcomes in metastatic renal cell carcinoma. This thesis analyses response rates, toxicity and survival with tyrosine kinase inhibitors in routine practice.
Comparative study of immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy versus tyrosine kinase inhibitor monotherapy in first-line metastatic renal cell carcinoma where both modalities are available. The project evaluates response and immune-related toxicities.
Cross sectional analysis of fertility preservation discussions and interventions in young patients with genitourinary cancers. This study assesses awareness, uptake and barriers to sperm banking and other options.
Comparative study of quality of life in patients with prostate cancer receiving intermittent versus continuous androgen deprivation therapy. The research evaluates sexual function, metabolic changes and psychological impact.

5. Gynecologic Oncology (Medical Oncology Perspective)

Comparative study of paclitaxel–carboplatin versus alternative platinum-based combinations in first-line advanced epithelial ovarian cancer. This thesis compares response rates, haematologic toxicity and neuropathy.
Comparative study of intraperitoneal plus intravenous chemotherapy versus intravenous chemotherapy alone where intraperitoneal therapy is available in ovarian cancer. The project evaluates survival outcomes, toxicity and hospital stay.
Observational study of neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval debulking surgery in advanced ovarian cancer. This research examines operability, residual disease and progression-free survival.
Comparative study of platinum-free interval–guided retreatment strategies in recurrent ovarian cancer. The thesis analyses chemotherapy choices, response rates and tolerability.
Cross sectional analysis of cervical cancer stage distribution and treatment patterns in women referred to a comprehensive cancer centre. This study examines socio-demographic determinants of late presentation.
Comparative study of concurrent chemoradiotherapy regimens with weekly cisplatin versus alternative agents in locally advanced cervical cancer. The project evaluates acute toxicity, treatment interruptions and early disease control.
Observational study of targeted therapy and poly adenosine diphosphate-ribose polymerase inhibitor use in ovarian cancer with homologous recombination deficiency where testing and drugs are available. This research evaluates adverse events, treatment duration and progression-free survival.
Comparative study of quality of life in women treated for ovarian cancer with standard chemotherapy versus chemotherapy plus maintenance targeted therapy where accessible. The thesis assesses fatigue, neuropathy and psychological domains.
Cross sectional analysis of fertility preservation discussions in young women with gynaecologic cancers undergoing chemotherapy. This study evaluates counselling quality, uptake and future pregnancy outcomes where follow-up is possible.
Comparative study of different antiemetic prophylaxis regimens in women receiving highly emetogenic gynaecologic cancer chemotherapy. The project evaluates control of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting.

6. Hematologic Malignancies (Leukaemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma)

Comparative study of paediatric-inspired regimens versus conventional adult regimens in young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia where both are used. This thesis compares remission rates, toxicity and event-free survival.
Comparative study of standard-dose versus reduced-intensity chemotherapy in elderly patients with acute myeloid leukaemia. The project evaluates early mortality, remission achievement and quality of life.
Observational study of chronic myeloid leukaemia patients on first-line tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy. This research examines molecular response rates, adherence and treatment interruptions.
Comparative study of different tyrosine kinase inhibitors in chronic myeloid leukaemia with focus on side effect profiles and treatment satisfaction. The thesis assesses musculoskeletal complaints, vascular risk and financial burden.
Cross sectional analysis of Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma subtype distribution and association with viral markers such as Epstein–Barr virus where testing is available. This study explores age, stage and histologic patterns.
Comparative study of anthracycline-based versus non-anthracycline regimens in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in patients with cardiac risk factors. The project evaluates disease control, cardiotoxicity and survival.
Observational study of multiple myeloma patients receiving proteasome inhibitor–based induction therapy. This research documents response rates, peripheral neuropathy and renal recovery.
Comparative study of autologous stem cell transplantation versus non-transplant consolidation in eligible multiple myeloma patients where transplantation is available. The thesis assesses progression-free and overall survival and treatment-related morbidity.
Cross sectional analysis of tumour lysis syndrome incidence and risk factors in haematologic malignancies receiving induction chemotherapy. This study evaluates preventive strategies and biochemical monitoring practices.
Comparative study of two supportive care strategies for febrile neutropenia: inpatient broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics versus early-switch outpatient oral regimens in selected low-risk patients. The project assesses safety, hospital stay and cost implications.

7. Immunotherapy, Targeted Therapy and Precision Oncology

Comparative study of immunotherapy-based combinations versus chemotherapy alone in advanced solid tumours such as lung or renal cancers where immunotherapy is available. This thesis compares response rates, survival and immune-related adverse events.
Observational study of immune-related adverse events in patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors. The research documents timing, organ involvement, management strategies and treatment outcomes.
Comparative study of biomarker-selected targeted therapy versus non-biomarker-based chemotherapy in advanced cancers. This project evaluates response, toxicity and quality of life.
Cross sectional analysis of next-generation sequencing reports in advanced cancers and proportion of patients with potentially actionable mutations. The thesis explores real-world implementation of precision oncology.
Comparative study of treatment outcomes in epidermal growth factor receptor-mutated lung cancer patients started on first-generation versus third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors where available. This research analyses time to resistance, central nervous system progression and toxicity.
Observational study of treatment patterns and adherence to oral targeted therapies in chronic solid tumours. The project evaluates missed doses, financial toxicity and patient-reported barriers.
Comparative study of programmed death-ligand 1 expression thresholds used for immunotherapy eligibility and their predictive value for response. This thesis assesses response across low, intermediate and high programmed death-ligand 1 categories.
Cross sectional analysis of molecular tumour boards: case-mix, recommendations and implementation rates. The research examines multidisciplinary decision-making in precision oncology.
Observational study of long-term endocrine and metabolic effects of targeted therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This project tracks thyroid dysfunction, hypertension and metabolic changes over time.
Comparative study of patient-reported quality of life in those receiving intravenous chemotherapy versus oral targeted therapies. The thesis evaluates convenience, symptom burden and clinic visit frequency.

8. Palliative Care, Supportive Care and Quality of Life

Comparative study of early integration of palliative care along with systemic therapy versus standard oncology care alone in advanced solid tumours. This thesis evaluates symptom burden, quality of life and aggressiveness of end-of-life care.
Cross sectional analysis of pain management adequacy in cancer patients attending outpatient clinics. The research assesses opioid use, barriers to pain control and patient satisfaction.
Comparative study of different antiemetic regimens for highly emetogenic chemotherapy in solid tumours. This project evaluates control of acute and delayed nausea and vomiting using standardised scales.
Observational study of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and its impact on function and quality of life. The thesis documents risk factors, severity and effect on daily activities.
Comparative study of oral versus parenteral nutritional support strategies in patients with advanced gastrointestinal malignancy. This research evaluates weight trends, body composition and treatment tolerance.
Cross sectional analysis of depression and anxiety prevalence in patients receiving active cancer therapy. The study explores associations with diagnosis stage, financial stress and social support.
Comparative study of patient-reported outcomes in those receiving day-care chemotherapy versus inpatient chemotherapy for similar regimens. The project examines convenience, hospital-acquired infection rates and costs.
Observational study of home-based palliative care models for advanced cancer patients in urban or semi-urban settings. This thesis evaluates symptom control, hospital admissions and caregiver satisfaction.
Comparative study of bisphosphonates versus denosumab for prevention of skeletal-related events in metastatic bone disease where both are accessible. The research assesses fracture rates, hypocalcaemia and osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Cross sectional analysis of caregiver burden and psychological distress in families of advanced cancer patients. This study uses validated scales to quantify stress and identify modifiable factors.

9. Oncology Diagnostics, Biomarkers and Predictive Testing

Cross sectional study of tumour marker utilisation patterns and their diagnostic yield in solid tumours. This research examines indications, interpretation issues and value in monitoring.
Comparative study of liquid biopsy–based circulating tumour DNA analysis versus tissue biopsy in detection of actionable mutations where liquid biopsy is available. The thesis evaluates concordance, turnaround time and clinical utility.
Observational study of laboratory and imaging staging concordance in advanced cancers. This project explores discrepancies and their impact on treatment planning.
Comparative study of fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography versus conventional imaging in staging lymphomas and selected solid tumours where available. The research evaluates upstaging, downstaging and changes in management.
Cross sectional analysis of mismatch repair deficiency and microsatellite instability testing in colorectal and other cancers. This study examines testing rates, positive proportions and linkage with immunotherapy use.
Observational study of turnaround times for key oncology biomarkers and their effect on treatment initiation. The thesis evaluates bottlenecks in sample processing and reporting.
Comparative study of single-gene versus multigene panel testing strategies in early breast and ovarian cancer with suspected hereditary predisposition. This research examines detection of pathogenic variants, variants of uncertain significance and counselling complexity.
Cross sectional analysis of Ki-67 proliferation index and its association with outcomes in hormone receptor–positive breast cancer. The project assesses prognostic value and reproducibility of Ki-67 scoring.
Study of serum lactate dehydrogenase and other baseline biomarkers as predictors of outcome in metastatic melanoma or other advanced cancers. This thesis examines their correlation with survival and treatment response.
Comparative study of different risk stratification models incorporating biomarkers for decision-making in early-stage cancers. The research evaluates discrimination, calibration and clinical usefulness.

10. Survivorship, Long-Term Treatment Outcomes and Late Effects

Cross sectional study of long-term metabolic and cardiovascular complications in breast cancer survivors receiving endocrine therapy. This research assesses weight gain, lipid changes, hypertension and diabetes prevalence.
Comparative study of cognitive function in cancer survivors who received chemotherapy versus age- and education-matched controls. The thesis evaluates patient-reported and objectively measured cognitive domains.
Observational study of fertility and pregnancy outcomes in young adult cancer survivors treated with gonadotoxic chemotherapy. This project documents menstrual recovery, fertility interventions and obstetric outcomes.
Comparative study of bone health and fracture risk in survivors receiving long-term steroids or endocrine therapy versus those not on such medications. The research evaluates bone mineral density, fracture history and calcium–vitamin D use.
Cross sectional analysis of employment status, financial toxicity and quality of life in long-term cancer survivors. This study examines work participation, income changes and psychosocial adjustment.
Observational study of late cardiac toxicity in patients treated with anthracyclines and chest radiotherapy. The thesis evaluates echocardiographic parameters, heart failure symptoms and risk factors.
Comparative study of survivorship care delivered in dedicated survivorship clinics versus routine oncology follow-up. This research assesses guideline adherence, screening for late effects and patient satisfaction.
Cross sectional analysis of psychological distress and fear of recurrence in long-term survivors of breast, colorectal or lymphoma cancers. The project evaluates coping mechanisms and need for psychological intervention.
Observational study of vaccination status and infection risk in adult cancer survivors with residual immunosuppression. This thesis examines awareness, guideline-based vaccination and infection episodes.
Comparative study of lifestyle modification counselling versus usual care in reducing metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk among cancer survivors. The research evaluates changes in body weight, physical activity and biochemical parameters.
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