Medical Oncology

Precision oncology uses information about the genetic, molecular, or biological characteristics of a tumour to guide treatment decisions. Instead of considering only where the cancer began, this approach may identify specific biomarkers or alterations that influence how the cancer grows and responds to treatment. When clinically appropriate, tests such as genomic profiling, biomarker analysis, or liquid biopsy may help doctors select targeted therapies, immunotherapies, or other personalised treatment approaches.

Chemotherapy uses medicines to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be given on its own or combined with surgery, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or other treatments. Depending on the treatment plan, chemotherapy may be used before another treatment to reduce the size of a tumour (neoadjuvant), after treatment to lower the risk of recurrence (adjuvant), or to control advanced disease and relieve symptoms (palliative).

Targeted therapy acts on specific proteins, genes, or molecular pathways involved in cancer growth and survival. It is recommended when testing shows that a tumour has a suitable treatment target. Because targeted therapies act on particular biological features, their effects and side-effect profiles may differ from those of chemotherapy. The suitability and expected benefits of treatment vary for every patient.

Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognise and respond to cancer cells. Some cancers can avoid or suppress the immune response; immunotherapy may interfere with these mechanisms and help immune cells act against the disease. The effectiveness of immunotherapy depends on factors such as the cancer type, stage, previous treatment, and the presence of certain biomarkers. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

Hormone therapy, also called endocrine therapy, may be used for cancers whose growth is influenced by hormones. It works by lowering the level of certain hormones in the body or blocking their effects on cancer cells. Hormone therapy may be given alone or alongside surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or other treatments. The duration and form of treatment depend on the diagnosis and individual care plan.

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) combine a laboratory-designed antibody with an anti-cancer medicine. The antibody recognises a specific marker expressed by certain cancer cells and helps deliver an anti-cancer medicine to cells carrying that marker. ADCs may be considered when testing confirms that the relevant target is present. Like other cancer treatments, they may also affect healthy cells and cause side effects. Their suitability is determined through appropriate testing and specialist evaluation.

Supportive and palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms, managing treatment-related effects, and improving comfort and quality of life. It can address physical symptoms as well as emotional, psychological, nutritional, social, and practical concerns. Palliative care is not limited to end-of-life care. It may be introduced at any stage and can be provided alongside treatments intended to cure, control, or slow the disease.