What is the study of the heart and its functions known as?

The study of the heart and its functions is known as cardiology. This branch of medicine focuses on understanding the structure, function, and disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiologists are specialists who diagnose and treat various heart-related conditions, such as heart disease, arrhythmias, and hypertension. The study encompasses both the physiological mechanisms of heart function and the pathophysiology of heart diseases. By concentrating on these aspects, cardiology plays a crucial role in improving cardiovascular health and outcomes for patients, which is vital due to the prevalence of heart-related conditions globally.

The other fields mentioned—oncology, dermatology, and nephrology—focus on entirely different areas of health. Oncology deals with cancer and tumors, dermatology is concerned with skin diseases and disorders, while nephrology focuses on kidney function and diseases. Each of these disciplines has its own set of practices and expertise separate from what is studied in cardiology.