What does the term "oncology" primarily refer to?

The term "oncology" primarily refers to the study of cancer. This field encompasses the understanding of the biology of cancer, its diagnosis, treatment options, and the management of patients affected by cancer. Oncologists, the specialists within this field, work to understand how cancer develops, progresses, and responds to therapies, providing critical insights that contribute to advancements in treatment and patient care.

In the context of this question, the other choices represent different medical fields. The study of infectious diseases is focused on pathogens and the body’s responses to infections. Hormonal disorders pertain to endocrinology, which investigates hormonal imbalances and their effects on body function. The study of genetic mutations falls under genetics or genomics, exploring how changes in genes can lead to various health conditions, including some cancers, but is broader and not limited to cancer alone. Thus, the focus of oncology is distinctly on cancer itself, solidifying option B as the correct answer.