5 Minutes Read
The advancements in cancer care
KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)
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Summary
Dr. Vijay V. Haribhakti, Chair of Onco Sciences at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, and Dr. T Raja, Director of Medical Oncology at Apollo Hospitals, shed light on developments that are revolutionising cancer management.
Advancements in technology and personalised medicine are reshaping the way we approach cancer. Dr. Vijay V. Haribhakti, Chair of Onco Sciences at Sir H. N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, and Dr. T Raja, Director of Medical Oncology at Apollo Hospitals, shed light on developments that are revolutionising cancer management.
Liquid Biopsies: A Game-Changer in Cancer Diagnostics
Liquid biopsies have emerged as a breakthrough in cancer diagnostics, offering a minimally invasive alternative to traditional solid biopsies. Dr. Raja highlights their growing popularity and efficiency, especially in accessing difficult-to-reach tumor sites. These tests not only aid in primary and secondary diagnoses but also enable real-time monitoring of changes in the DNA profile, facilitating early detection of recurrences and guiding treatment decisions.
Enhanced Quality of Life and Treatment Modalities
Over the past two decades, significant strides have been made in improving the quality of life for cancer patients. Chemotherapy drugs have become more refined and targeted, minimising adverse effects such as diarrhoea and vomiting.
Dr. Haribhakti emphasises the paradigm shift in surgical approaches, particularly in breast cancer management. With the advent of oncoplastic surgery, a vast majority of breast cancer cases can now be treated with breast conservation techniques, preserving both aesthetics and function. Additionally, robotic surgeries have revolutionised procedures like prostatectomy, offering quicker recovery times and improved outcomes.
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Precision oncology has emerged as a cornerstone of modern cancer care, enabling customised treatment strategies based on the unique genetic makeup of each patient’s tumour. Dr. Raja underscores its significance across all stages of cancer, from early detection to advanced disease management. By targeting specific molecular pathways, precision medicine allows reduced toxicity to the patient.
Immunotherapy has ushered in a new era of cancer treatment by harnessing the body’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. Dr. Raja highlights its success in treating a wide range of cancers, including lung, renal, colon, and breast cancers. Additionally, CAR-T therapy, a form of immunotherapy, is now gaining steam in India, especially with the introduction of the indigenously manufactured therapy NexCAR19.
Dr. Haribhakti and Dr. Raja stress the importance of making cancer care accessible and affordable to all patients. With options such as LINAC and proton therapy now available in India, alongside innovations like NexCAR19, which significantly reduce treatment costs, the landscape of cancer care is evolving rapidly. Moreover, greater awareness and acceptance of cancer as a reality of life can lead to improved outcomes and better compliance with treatment regimens.
Lastly, Dr. Haribhakti aptly puts it, “Healthy awareness trumps ignorant fear,” reminding us that knowledge and acceptance are the cornerstones of progress in the fight against cancer.
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