Is it true that to become a pediatric oncologist, you must first train to become a general pediatrician?

Yes: After college, the typical path to being a pediatrician involves 4 years of medical school and then 3 years of residency training. Further training, as part of a "fellowship", is required to become a pediatric oncologist.

Yes: You must first do a 3 year training program and pass a board certification in general pediatrics before you specialize in pediatric oncology.

Yes: Prior to training to become a pediatric hematologist/oncologist (3 year fellowship), one must complete a pediatric residency (3 years after medical school).

Yes: As others have said, one must complete a pediatric residency and then a three year pediatric hematology-oncology fellowship. Best wishes if you are considering this path..