The Promise and the Hype of 'Personalised Medicine'

Area of Science:

• Genomic Medicine
• Oncology
• Healthcare Policy

Background:

• Personalised medicine is a highly anticipated future in healthcare.
• Progress in applying personalised medicine to cancer has been limited by tumor heterogeneity and clonal evolution.
• Diseases with single genetic origins are more suitable for precision medicine than complex multifactorial diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the current state and future prospects of personalised medicine.
• To address the challenges hindering the widespread adoption of personalised medicine, particularly in complex diseases.
• To advocate for a balanced perspective on personalised medicine, integrating genomic insights with holistic patient care.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and critical analysis of current research and clinical practices in personalised medicine.
• Examination of the impact of tumour heterogeneity and clonal evolution on cancer treatment.
• Discussion of the complexities of multifactorial diseases in the context of precision medicine.

Main Results:

• The application of personalised medicine in cancer has not met expectations due to significant biological complexities.
• Most common diseases involve intricate genetic and environmental interactions, posing substantial challenges for personalised medicine.
• Current enthusiasm for personalised medicine may be misdirecting clinical resources and research priorities.

Conclusions:

• A realistic appraisal of genomics' capabilities is essential for advancing personalised medicine.
• Focusing on the individual patient beyond their genome is vital for effective healthcare.
• Integrating genomic data with a comprehensive understanding of the patient will drive meaningful health improvements.