Cancer remains one of the most prevalent diseases affecting canine and feline patients, with thousands of new diagnoses annually. Given the low number of veterinary oncologists, the majority of these cases are managed by general practitioners in first-opinion clinics. However, with the rise of precision oncology, there is a transformation in cancer care, offering targeted and personalised treatments that lead to improved clinical outcomes.
What is Precision Oncology?
Precision oncology leverages genomic sequencing and artificial intelligence to identify specific genetic mutations within a tumor, allowing for tailored treatment plans. Unlike conventional chemotherapy, which can damage both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapies focus solely on cancerous mutations. This results in greater efficacy and fewer adverse effects. Additionally, many of these therapies are administered orally, providing a more convenient and safer treatment option for both veterinarians and pet owners.
Advancements Making Precision Oncology More Accessible
Recent technological advancements are making these innovative treatments more widely available and cost-effective. By analysing case data, researchers can refine treatment strategies, leading to the development of new, less invasive, and highly effective cancer therapies.
Furthermore, as pet owners increasingly seek advanced treatment options, precision oncology enables veterinarians to offer more personalised and informed recommendations, ensuring the best balance between longevity and quality of life for cancer patients.
Empowering Veterinarians and Expanding Access
One of the most significant benefits of precision oncology is that it empowers general practitioners to deliver effective cancer care without requiring extensive specialised training or costly equipment. This expanded accessibility is particularly valuable for patients and clients in regional and remote settings, ensuring that more pets receive high-quality cancer treatment.
As precision oncology continues to evolve, further breakthroughs are anticipated, ultimately improving prognosis and enhancing the overall well-being of canine and feline cancer patients.
Looking Ahead
With ongoing advancements and growing accessibility, precision oncology is revolutionising the way veterinarians approach cancer treatment. By embracing this transformative field, veterinary professionals can provide cutting-edge, personalized care that significantly improves the lives of pets and their owners.
Staying ahead of the game
Veterinary medicine is constantly evolving, and the guidelines for best practice in areas like oncology are constantly changing. With new treatments, diagnostic tools, and techniques emerging regularly, ongoing education helps vets stay up to date on innovative therapies like precision oncology.
If you want to learn more about how to approach cancer patients with industry-leading care, then our Oncology Online Learning Program is for you. Developed by a team of global oncology specialists, this program gives you the skills to develop individual case plans and become confident in your investigations and treatment of cancer to give your patient the best possible outcomes.
To learn more or enrol now, click here.
__
Written by Dr Carmel Griffin BVSc CSAM GCEd MANZCVS