Cancer Care: The Missing Link in Biomarker Testing

In the realm of advanced cancer treatment, biomarker testing is a crucial tool. It helps doctors pick the best targeted therapy for each patient. Yet, many people with advanced cancer do not get this vital testing. This is a big problem. Guidelines suggest that everyone with advanced cancer should have biomarker testing. But in reality, many do not. This gap in care can lead to worse outcomes. Patients may not get the treatment that could help them the most. This can affect their overall survival. Why is this happening? There could be many reasons. Maybe doctors are not aware of the guidelines. Or perhaps the testing is not available or is too expensive. Whatever the reason, it is clear that something needs to change. Patients and doctors need to work together. They should make sure that biomarker testing is part of the treatment plan. This can help ensure that patients get the best possible care. It is a step towards improving outcomes for those with advanced cancer.