The Utility of Molecular Tumor Profiling for Patients With Advanced or Rare Cancer in a Regional Australian Setting
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: AIM: Molecular tumor profiling (MTP) aims to link biomarker targets to corresponding treatments, usually via clinical trials. The usefulness of offering MTP for patients in a regional/rural setting is unknown, including assessment of outcomes of commencement on a clinical trial and potential cost savings. METHODS: Patients with advanced or rare cancers at a regional cancer center underwent MTP of their biopsy specimens, which was organized and conducted by a central laboratory, as part of the Garvan Research Institute Cancer Molecular Screening and Therapeutics Program (MoST) research study. Treating clinicians then received a report of mutations, alongside potential clinical trials, after discussion of the case at a molecular tumor board. Available trials were then offered to patients. The cost of potentially travelling to a tertiary center was compared to travelling locally for the patients who went on a clinical trial. RESULTS: Potential clinical trials were found for 69 of 89 participants as a result of MTP. Eleven patients accepted a trial, with 10 of these being a trial delivered locally. The average cost saving to a patient on average for a return trip to a regional center rather than a metropolitan center was $592.04. CONCLUSION: While somatic mutations are common and trials are available for patients with advanced and/or rare cancer, trials administered locally are favored, and cost savings may contribute to this.
DOI: 10.1111/ajco.70059
Language: English
Subfield: Cancer Research
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7117674279