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Published on: April 11, 2016
The Utility of Molecular Tumor Profiling for Patients With Advanced or Rare Cancer in a Regional Australian Setting
Natalie Chilko1,2,3, Ortis Estacio2,3, Christopher Steer2,4,5
1University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
Aim:
Molecular tumor profiling (MTP) aims to link biomarker targets to corresponding treatments, usually via clinical trials. The usefulness of offering MTP for patients in a regional/rural setting is unknown, including assessment of outcomes of commencement on a clinical trial and potential cost savings.
Methods:
Patients with advanced or rare cancers at a regional cancer center underwent MTP of their biopsy specimens, which was organized and conducted by a central laboratory, as part of the Garvan Research Institute Cancer Molecular Screening and Therapeutics Program (MoST) research study. Treating clinicians then received a report of mutations, alongside potential clinical trials, after discussion of the case at a molecular tumor board. Available trials were then offered to patients. The cost of potentially travelling to a tertiary center was compared to travelling locally for the patients who went on a clinical trial.
Results:
Potential clinical trials were found for 69 of 89 participants as a result of MTP. Eleven patients accepted a trial, with 10 of these being a trial delivered locally. The average cost saving to a patient on average for a return trip to a regional center rather than a metropolitan center was $592.04.
Conclusion:
While somatic mutations are common and trials are available for patients with advanced and/or rare cancer, trials administered locally are favored, and cost savings may contribute to this.
Insights
Molecular tumor profiling (MTP) identified clinical trials for most advanced cancer patients. Locally delivered trials were preferred, offering significant cost savings for rural patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Molecular tumor profiling (MTP) connects biomarker targets to treatments, often through clinical trials.
- Its utility in regional/rural settings, including trial outcomes and cost-effectiveness, remains largely unexamined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the value of MTP in a regional cancer center for patients with advanced or rare cancers.
- To evaluate clinical trial accessibility, patient uptake, and associated cost savings.
Main Methods:
- Patients at a regional center underwent MTP via a central lab as part of the MoST research study.
- Results were discussed at a molecular tumor board, with clinicians receiving mutation reports and potential trial options.
- Patients were offered available trials, and travel costs were compared for regional vs. metropolitan centers.
Main Results:
- MTP identified potential clinical trials for 69 out of 89 participants.
- Eleven patients enrolled in trials, with 10 opting for locally administered trials.
- Patients saved an average of $592.04 by avoiding travel to a metropolitan center.
Conclusions:
- Somatic mutations are prevalent in advanced/rare cancers, with available clinical trials.
- Locally administered trials are favored by patients, potentially due to significant cost savings.
