Dr Kunjahari Medhi, Senior Director-Medical Oncology & Hemato-Oncology, Medical and Haemato Oncology, Cancer Institute, Medanta, Gurugram stresses that unlike conventional treatments like chemotherapy, which affect both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapy aims to disrupt the specific factors that contribute to disease development. This precision makes it a game-changer in the world of healthcare
Understanding Targeted Therapy: [1] [2]
Targeted therapy is a specialised form of medical treatment that focuses on specific molecules involved in the growth, progression, and spread of diseases. Unlike conventional treatments like chemotherapy, which affect both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapy aims to disrupt the specific factors that contribute to disease development. This precision makes it a game-changer in the world of healthcare.
Cancer alters the genetic makeup of your cells, leading to mutations that prompt uncontrolled cell multiplication and growth. In targeted therapy, a physician conducts a biopsy or surgery to obtain a sample of cancer cell tissue. This sample undergoes biomarker or molecular testing in a lab to pinpoint the specific mutation responsible for the genetic change in the cells. After identifying the mutated gene, the doctor prescribes targeted drugs in the form of pills or intravenous (IV) administration. These drugs are designed to either eliminate or impede the specific mutation. Consequently, the cancer may reduce in size or even disappear.
In targeted cancer therapy, specific elements within cancer cells or internal signals driving their growth are identified and confronted. Medications in targeted therapy seek changes in cancer cells, such as atypical proteins, excess specific proteins, genetic alterations, or mutated proteins. Once identified, the therapy stimulates the immune system to eliminate cancer cells, blocks signals crucial for cell division and growth, halts new blood vessel formation supporting cancer cell growth, delivers toxins directly to cancer cells (sparing healthy ones), modifies proteins inducing cell death, or inhibits the arrival of growth-stimulating hormones (as in breast or prostate cancer). This targeted approach enhances treatment efficacy while minimizing adverse effects associated with traditional treatments.
The air of hope in cancer treatment:[3] [4]
In the field of oncology, targeted therapy has brought a renewed sense of hope for both patients and healthcare providers. Traditional chemotherapy, while effective, often leads to significant side effects due to its indiscriminate impact on rapidly dividing cells. Targeted therapies, on the other hand, enable a more nuanced and less toxic treatment strategy.
Targeted therapy distinguishes itself by selectively eliminating cancer cells while preserving healthy ones. This innovative approach alters the proteins within cancer cells, effectively halting their growth. Additionally, targeted therapy disrupts the formation of new blood vessels, impeding the blood supply to cancer cells. This precision in targeting only the diseased cells contributes to the effectiveness of the treatment while minimising damage to healthy tissues.
For instance, in breast cancer, drugs like Herceptin specifically target the HER2 protein overexpressed in certain breast cancers. This targeted approach has significantly improved outcomes for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer, with fewer side effects compared to conventional chemotherapy.
Business implications for healthcare providers
India’s healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly, with an increasing emphasis on advanced medical technologies and personalised treatment approaches. The integration of advanced diagnostics and personalised treatment plans, which are central to targeted therapy, demands substantial investment in technology and training for healthcare providers in India. Hospitals and clinics that proactively invest in these advancements position themselves as leaders in providing state-of-the-art care. In a market where patients are becoming increasingly discerning about the latest and most effective treatments, healthcare facilities embracing targeted therapy technologies can attract a growing patient base seeking cutting-edge medical solutions.
Collaborations with pharma companies developing targeted therapies can also be particularly advantageous for healthcare providers in India. By establishing partnerships with these companies, healthcare providers can gain access to the latest advancements in targeted therapies. This not only allows them to offer innovative treatments to their patients but also enhances their reputation as institutions at the forefront of medical progress.
Moreover, as India continues to grapple with a high burden of diseases like cancer and diabetes, the demand for advanced and effective treatments is on the rise. Healthcare providers incorporating targeted therapy into their repertoire are better positioned to address the specific needs of patients with these conditions, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes.
Targeted therapy represents a paradigm shift in healthcare, offering a beacon of hope for improved treatment outcomes across various medical conditions. Its precision and effectiveness make it a valuable asset for both patients and healthcare providers. In the B2B context, embracing targeted therapy positions healthcare facilities as leaders in innovative care, fostering collaborations with pharmaceutical companies at the forefront of medical advancements. As we continue to unlock the molecular mysteries of diseases, targeted therapy remains a promising avenue for the future of healthcare.
References:
[1] Targeted cancer therapy: Types, how it works, side effects (medicalnewstoday.com
[2] Targeted Cancer Therapy: Benefits, Risks, and How It Works (healthline.com)
[3] Targeted Cancer Therapy: Benefits, Risks, and How It Works (healthline.com)
[4] What is Targeted Therapy? | Cancer.Net
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