Finding the right trials to beat rare cancers | ABC Radio National

Key Concepts:

• Rare cancers
• Molecular testing/profiling
• Drug targets
• Precision oncology
• Clinical trials
• Survival rates
• Omico

Omico's Role in Precision Oncology for Rare Cancers

The core issue addressed is the challenge of treating rare cancers. While molecular testing can identify drug targets, the development of drugs targeting these specific targets is often hindered by the fact that pharmaceutical companies prioritize more common cancers due to commercial viability. Omico's objective is to transform the healthcare system to make molecular management of cancer, specifically precision oncology, the standard practice.

Molecular Profiling and Clinical Trial Mapping

Omico provides molecular profiling services. Critically, Omico maps the results of the molecular profile against a comprehensive database of clinical trials across the country. This mapping process is a key differentiator. The information provided to the referring doctor includes not only the molecular profile of the patient's cancer but also specific recommendations on where the patient can access relevant treatments, primarily through clinical trials.

Impact and Reach

To date, over 23,000 Australians with cancer have participated in the Omico program, receiving molecular profiling and, more importantly, recommendations for accessing potentially life-changing treatments.

Survival Rate Improvement

The impact of precision oncology screening is significant. In more than one in three patients, Omico identifies unexpected and promising drug targets. For these patients, access to targeted treatments, often through clinical trials, has the potential to double their survival rates.

Conclusion

Omico plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between molecular profiling and access to targeted treatments, particularly for patients with rare cancers. By providing comprehensive molecular profiling and mapping results to clinical trials, Omico significantly improves the chances of identifying effective treatments and potentially doubling survival rates for a substantial proportion of patients.