Push for genomic medicine to improve cancer treatments

A large UK study led by Genomics England analysing 13,880 solid tumours from 33 cancer types revealed widespread genetic variations that were common across some of the most deadly cancers.

Integrating genomic data with real-world treatment and outcome data, researchers found genetic mutations indicated for testing in a host of cancers including brain cancer, melanoma, head and neck cancers, colon and lung cancers.

The study analysed data covering over 30 types of solid tumours collected from more than 13,000 participants with cancer in the 100,000 Genomes Project, an initiative to provide whole-genome sequencing (WGS) for patients with cancer and to evaluate opportunities for precision cancer care within the UK National Healthcare System (NHS).

The findings have renewed calls from Australian scientists to fast-track moves to implement genomic medicine in clinical cancer care closer to home.

University of Melbourne Centre for Cancer Director Professor Sean Grimmond told The Australian, "This large UK study shows that patients with rare and complex types of cancer gain significant benefits from access to whole genome sequencing."

“It provides real-word data to show comprehensive genetic tests result in a clearer cancer diagnosis in these cases, while enabling clinicians to select targeted treatment options likely to have the greatest impact.”

Although Australia is at the forefront of research in cancer and genomics, Professor Grimmond suggested this country is at risk of falling behind other nations including England in the race to personalise cancer care.

"Australia is recognised as a pioneer of cancer whole genome sequencing and precision oncology but we are yet to see these discoveries being implemented on a meaningful scale,” Professor Grimmond said. “The timely implementation of comprehensive molecular testing in solid cancers is being adopted much more quickly in other countries including the UK, Netherlands, USA and Japan."

“We need to overcome this barrier to ensure Australian patients have equitable access to improved cancer genome diagnostics and the expanding repertoire of precision cancer therapies. If we get it right, precision medicine can lead to better patient outcomes and a more efficient and effective health care system.”

Read the full article in The Australian.