Beyond one-size-fits-all: Australia’s leap into genomics-driven cancer treatment

Beyond one-size-fits-all: Australia’s leap into genomics-driven cancer treatment

The federal government has unveiled Cancer Australia’s National Framework for Genomics in Cancer Control, a visionary strategy designed to integrate genomic medicine into every stage of the cancer continuum. This framework leverages advanced genomic technology to identify individual disease risks, enable early diagnosis, and tailor treatments based on each patient’s unique DNA profile. The ultimate goal is to shift from a “one-size-fits-all” approach to one that delivers personalised therapies, reducing side effects and improving survival rates. By establishing robust genomic infrastructure, developing a national genomic data registry, and upskilling the cancer care workforce, the framework seeks to ensure that all Australians have access to high-quality, culturally safe cancer care.

In parallel, Rare Cancers Australia in partnership with Evohealth, released a report last week which further outlines how precision oncology could transform treatment outcomes across Australia. It reveals that rare and less common cancers account for 24% of all cancer diagnoses and a staggering 33% of cancer deaths, underscoring the urgent need to move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, the report advocates for comprehensive genomic profiling as the key to delivering targeted therapies that not only extend survival but also reduce the debilitating side effects of conventional treatments.

Developed through a series of roundtable discussions with leading cancer experts, the report lays out five critical action recommendations that align closely with the new Cancer Australia framework.

But what exactly is genomics, and why is it so crucial for cancer care? Genomics is the study of an individual’s complete genetic makeup—or genome—and how these genes interact with each other and with environmental factors. In the context of cancer, genomic profiling involves analysing the genetic mutations that drive tumour growth and spread. This information is pivotal for designing targeted therapies that attack cancer at its molecular root, thereby increasing treatment efficacy and reducing unwanted side effects. For example, identifying a BRCA gene mutation in a patient can guide the use of specific drugs, such as PARP inhibitors, that are more likely to be effective for that individual.

This approach is particularly important for hereditary cancers. A report we developed for Inherited Cancers Australia, Breaking the Cycle: Insights from the Inherited Cancers Australia Community, found that people with inherited cancer risk are actively seeking the information they need to reduce their risk. Enhanced integration and access to genomic testing can facilitate early detection, precise diagnosis, and targeted management—addressing the critical needs of the inherited cancer community.

Together, these new initiatives mark a transformative moment in the evolution of cancer care in Australia. By embracing precision oncology, Australia is paving the way for a future where personalised treatment is not just an aspiration but a standard practice—offering improved survival rates, better quality of life, and a more efficient healthcare system.