What's Happening?
The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) has launched an interactive website and downloadable guide titled 'Somatic and Germline Genetic Testing for Patients with Advanced Prostate Cancer—What You Should Know.'
This resource aims to empower patients and families to advocate for genetic testing that guides personalized treatment. The guide provides accurate medical information and pragmatic advice, helping patients understand and discuss genetic tests with healthcare providers. These tests are crucial for guiding treatment decisions but are underutilized in clinical practice. The resource is a joint project with the Urology Care Foundation and incorporates insights from leading medical professionals and patients.
Why It's Important?
The launch of this guide is a significant step in promoting precision oncology and personalized treatment strategies for prostate cancer patients. Genetic testing can reveal individual patterns in tumors, allowing doctors to match the right treatment to the right patient at the right time. This approach can prolong and improve patients' lives by providing a more complete picture of treatment options. The guide also addresses practical questions such as insurance coverage and costs, helping patients navigate the healthcare system to receive the tests they need. With AstraZeneca's support, the resource aims to increase awareness and access to precision genetic tests.
What's Next?
The Prostate Cancer Foundation, with the support of AstraZeneca, plans to continue increasing prostate cancer awareness and delivering education to patients and families. The guide will be distributed through the Association of Cancer Care Centers, and efforts will be made to ensure that more patients understand and receive precision genetic tests as part of their care. The collaboration with the Urology Care Foundation and AstraZeneca exemplifies a commitment to advancing cancer care and improving treatment access for patients worldwide.
