Advances in precision medicine are leading to highly personalized treatment plans and improving outcomes for patients with cancer and rare diseases.

The Kansas City Business Journal talked to experts in precision medicine across the metro. Dr. Marc Roth, a gastrointestinal oncologist, and Beth Gustafson, a clinical pharmacist, shared how Saint Luke's Hospital Center for Precision Oncology works to detect underlying drivers of cancer and target them with precision medicines.

“Genomic testing really has transformed the way that we work. It used to be just chemotherapies — that was it,” said Dr. Roth.

Now, a “tumor board” — oncologists, pathologists, pharmacists and researchers — assesses patients’ genomic information, medical history, current treatment plans and, if needed, recommends other drugs or clinical trials. The Saint Luke’s team also brings clinical trials to patients, rather than have them travel out of state, through a collaboration with the Tempus TIME Trial program.

“These targeted therapies really can change people’s lives and lengthen their lifespans when they have cancer,” she said.

Read the full Kansas City Business Journal article: Making Cancer Personal

Related Content

Thumbnail
Jan. 2, 2025

Ingram’s: A Genetic Condition

Ingram's talked to Dr. Marc Roth and Blake Buzard with Saint Luke's Hospital Center for Precision Oncology about the rapid pace of advances in precision medicine.
Nov. 26, 2024

FOX4: Saint Luke's Patient Living with Rare Cancer Starts Foundation to Help Others

More than 10 years after his diagnosis, he’s helping other people with the same rare cancer to hold on to hope.
Oct. 28, 2024

KSHB: Saint Luke's Doctor Starts Cancer Nonprofit in Ghana

Dr. Appiah spoke with KSHB about her passion for giving back to her home country and raising awareness for all types of cancer, with it all starting with breast cancer awareness.