Pharmacogenetics
Pharmacogenetics is an application of precision medicine that can be used
to predict how an individual will respond to a drug based on his or her
genetics. Every drug does not work for every patient, and some patients
have adverse reactions to certain drugs. The use of pharmacogenetics allows
clinicians to understand how a patient metabolizes drugs in order to prescribe
the right medication at the right dose.
Hoag Pharmacogenetics Pilot Study
Pharmacogenetics is an emerging application within the field of Precision
Medicine. Hoag Family Cancer Institute is bringing this new advancement
to patients through a pilot study that incorporates pharmacogenetics into
cancer treatment. Patients enrolled in the study provide a buccal swab,
or saliva sample, to collect their DNA. The sample is then sent to a laboratory
for genetic testing and analysis of the patient’s DNA in relation
to pharmacologic compounds to understand how the patient metabolizes and
responds to drugs. Doctors can then apply this information when selecting
anti-cancer drugs so that the patient is prescribed a drug at the right
dose that will produce the best response. The approach minimizes unwanted
side effects and hospital visits due to adverse drug reactions.
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.