NHS whole-gene cancer screening helps customise care

Experts have found that analysing the entire genetic code of cancer patients can help deliver treatments that work better for the individual.

In the biggest study of its kind, involving 13,000 cancer patients in England, combining DNA evidence and clinical data meant care could be tailored to the patient.  Based on the results, some were given alternative drugs, or were able to avoid those likely to cause them side effects.

In the study, which analysed data covering over 30 types of solid tumours, over nine out of every ten brain tumours and most lung and bowel cancers exhibited genetic changes that could guide specific treatments or decisions about surgery.

Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analyses someone’s entire genetic code – all 3.2 billion letters that make up their DNA.

Study lead Dr Nirupa Murugaesu, said it was “an important milestone in genomic medicine.  We are showing how cancer genomics can be incorporated into mainstream cancer care across a national health system – and the benefits that can bring patients.

“By collecting long-term clinical data alongside genomic data, the study has created a first-of-its-kind resource for clinicians to better predict outcomes and tailor treatments, which will allow them to inform, prepare, and manage the expectations of patients more effectively.”

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (jacquelinevance@chadlaw.co.uk), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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