What is Precision Medicine?
Precision Medicine refers to a personalized approach to caring for patients
that takes into account an individual’s genetics, environment, and
lifestyle in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease.
The mapping of the human genome in 2003 armed researchers and physicians
with knowledge of the sequences of our DNA and how changes in our DNA
– or mutations - cause disease. This knowledge is transforming the
way physicians think about and treat many diseases, especially cancer.
Precision Medicine and Cancer
Cancers have commonly been treated with chemotherapy generally selected
based on the organ location of the tumor - breast, lung, colon, and so
on. Applying a precision medicine approach to cancer involves the use
of novel genomic technologies, such as tumor profiling, to identify genetic
mutations – changes in the DNA sequence of a gene – as well
as changes in RNA, protein expressions, and the immune system that are
driving an individual’s tumor. Oncologists can use this information
to select targeted or precise therapies that will be most effective in
attacking the genetic mutations that are causing the cancer while minimizing
unwanted side effects. Instead of a one size fits all approach, precision
medicine aims to treat each patient individually based on the unique characteristics
of his or her tumor.
While most genetic mutations occur sporadically, some individuals are at
increased risk of developing certain cancers due to inherited genetic
mutations. These are called hereditary or germline mutations. Risk assessment
counseling can help individuals with a family or personal history of cancer
determine if genetic testing is needed to understand if they are predisposed
to certain cancers. For those who test positive for one or more hereditary
mutations, close surveillance or a preventative operation or medicine
to reduce the risk of developing cancer may be recommended.
Precision medicine remains a new field and while research and discovery
are ongoing, many patients are already benefiting from this new approach.
Hoag Precision Medicine Program
Hoag’s Precision Medicine Program was launched in 2016 to bring the
latest advances in genomic technologies, targeted therapies and research
to patients. The program currently focuses on applying precision medicine
to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer.
Learn More About Hoag’s Precision Medicine Program:
Tumor Profiling
High Risk Patients
Pharmacogenetics
Research
How to Access Personalized Therapies at Hoag
Hoag Family Cancer Institute continually works to provide the very best
care for our patients. Hoag's Precision Medicine Program and its team
of highly-regarded industry experts are a testament to that. No other
hospital in Orange County provides this level of personalized cancer care.
The first step is to speak with your physician about this offering through
Hoag. Your oncologist, or referring physician, will work directly with
Hoag's Precision Medicine Program team to review your case and discuss
next steps.
Hoag Family Cancer Institute feels privileged to be your partner in beating
your cancer, together.