[Precision medicine in oncology : where do we stand ?]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Personalized Medicine

Background:

• The traditional "one size fits all" medical approach is increasingly insufficient due to advances in understanding individual gene expression.
• Individual variations in gene expression can predict cancer treatment efficacy and side effects on healthy tissues.
• Treatment response is also influenced by environmental and socio-economic factors, highlighting the need for a holistic view.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the challenges and requirements for implementing precision medicine in daily oncological practice.
• To emphasize the importance of a holistic and individualized approach to cancer care.
• To advocate for international collaboration in data collection for precision medicine.

Main Methods:

• Review of current knowledge on individual gene expression and its impact on cancer treatment.
• Analysis of the technical, administrative, financial, cultural, and ethical barriers to precision medicine adoption.
• Discussion of the necessity for large-scale, diverse data collection through international efforts.

Main Results:

• Individual gene expression significantly influences anti-tumour treatment effects and side effects.
• Environmental and socio-economic factors also play a crucial role in treatment response.
• Significant challenges impede the widespread adoption of precision medicine in oncology.

Conclusions:

• Precision medicine offers a personalized approach to cancer care, moving beyond generalized treatments.
• Overcoming implementation barriers requires addressing technical, administrative, financial, cultural, and ethical issues.
• International cooperation and large-scale data acquisition are essential for advancing precision medicine and personalized cancer treatment.