Precision medicine is a new approach to cancer treatment that is expanding the therapeutic options available to doctors and patients. In recent years, it has taken an important place alongside the familiar tools of medical oncology, radiation oncology and surgical oncology.
For the patient, precision medicine starts with a molecular analysis of his or her tumor and the gene mutations and proteins that make it unique. The doctor then uses the analysis to match the tumor with the treatment that is most likely to be successful. This ";targeted therapy" contrasts sharply with standard chemotherapy, the traditional "one size fits all" approach that may result in side effects and damage to both cancer cells and healthy cells.
Today, precision medicine is bringing new hope to people with breast, lung, colon and other cancers.