Treating patients with cancer: individualising therapy,improving outcome

Abstract

This is an exciting time in the treatment of patients with cancer, as new therapies and technologies begin to impact on patient care. The concept of individualisation of therapy has come to the fore in both clinical practice and in cancer research; this excellent symposium introduced several ways in which new molecular techniques can improve patient selection and aid clinical decisionmaking. Methodical, evidence-based approaches to common clinical problems in oncology were also presented. It is clear that the challenges now are to investigate and validate which potential new therapeutic targets are important in vivo, and to identify which subgroups of patients benefit most from specific therapies and which patients can be spared treatment and its inherent risk of potential morbidity. In addition to this, by working together to enhance supportive care and reduce toxicity, the ultimate goal of improved outcome for patients can be realised.