Cancer, a devastating disease that afflicts millions worldwide, has long been a formidable challenge for healthcare systems. In India, where the burden of cancer is particularly significant, the disease has been on the rise in recent years. According to the National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP), India currently accounts for approximately 1.4 million new cancer cases and 7.8 lakh cancer-related deaths annually (1). The most common cancers in India include breast, lung, oral cavity, cervix, and stomach cancers (2). These cancers often disproportionately affect low-income populations due to limited access to healthcare, early detection, and treatment.
However, remarkable strides are being made in revolutionising cancer care through the integration of precision medicine and a strong emphasis on treatment adherence. Precision medicine, by tailoring treatments to individual patients based on their genetic makeup, offers the potential for more effective and less toxic therapies. Treatment adherence, on the other hand, is crucial for maximising the benefits of any cancer treatment and improving patient outcomes. Understanding the importance of both is crucial for providing effective and personalised cancer care in India, where the disease burden is significant.
The role of precision medicine and targeted therapies
Precision medicine, a paradigm shift in healthcare, tailors treatments to the individual patient based on their unique genetic makeup and molecular profile. This approach, once the domain of specialised centres, is rapidly gaining traction in India. Advanced technologies like genomic sequencing and molecular profiling are empowering oncologists to identify specific genetic alterations within tumours, paving the way for targeted therapies (3).
Targeted therapies, designed to attack cancer cells with precision, offer significant advantages over traditional treatments. By targeting specific molecular pathways involved in cancer growth and survival, these therapies can often achieve better outcomes with fewer side effects. In India, the availability of targeted therapies for various cancer types has increased substantially, providing hope for patients with previously limited treatment options (4).
However, the success of precision medicine hinges not only on the availability of advanced technologies but also on the adherence of patients to their treatment regimens. Treatment adherence, defined as the extent to which patients follow their prescribed treatment plans, is a critical factor in cancer care. Unfortunately, non-adherence to treatment is a common challenge faced by patients worldwide, including in India. Several factors contribute to treatment non-adherence, such as complex treatment regimens, financial constraints, and lack of understanding about the importance of adherence.
Strategies to improve treatment adherence
To address these challenges, healthcare providers in India are implementing innovative strategies to improve patient adherence. These strategies include (5) :
- Patient education and counselling: Providing comprehensive information about treatment plans, side effects, and the importance of adherence is crucial.
- Support groups and peer counselling: Connecting patients with others who have similar experiences can foster a sense of community and support (6).
- Financial assistance programs: Offering financial aid for treatments and medications can alleviate financial burdens and improve adherence (7).
- Reminder systems and mobile applications: Utilising technology to remind patients about medication schedules and appointments can enhance adherence.
The combination of precision medicine and enhanced treatment adherence is transforming cancer care in India. By leveraging advanced technologies and prioritising patient-centred care, healthcare providers are empowering patients and improving outcomes. As India continues to invest in research, infrastructure, and healthcare professionals, the country is poised to become a global leader in precision oncology and cancer care.
In conclusion, India’s journey in revolutionising cancer care is marked by significant progress in precision medicine and a growing emphasis on treatment adherence. By harnessing the power of targeted therapies and implementing patient-centred strategies, India is paving the way for a future where cancer is a treatable and manageable disease.
References:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9461636/
- https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.3322/caac.21834
- https://www.sophiagenetics.com/science-hub/the-era-of-precision-medicinea-paradigm-shift-in-healthcare/#:~:text=Precision%20medicine%20represents%20a%20patient,world%20data%20and%20advanced%20statistics
- https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/what-is-targeted-therapy-and-how-is-it-used-for-cancer-treatment.h00-159304623.html#:~:text=Because%20targeted%20therapies%20attack%20only,they%20would%20with%20traditional%20chemotherapy
- https://analytics-iq.com/tackling-treatment-medication-nonadherence-why-it-matters-for-healthcare-pharma-providers/
- https://www.apollohospitals.com/apollo-in-the-news/apollo-cancer-centres-has-successfully-launched-indias-first-ai-precision-oncology-centre/#:~:text=In%20a%20significant%20move%20that,enormous%20possibilities%20offered%20by%20AI