Why is genetic testing becoming increasingly important in chemotherapy?

Genetic testing is becoming increasingly important in chemotherapy because it allows for personalized treatment plans based on the specific characteristics of a patient's tumor. By analyzing the genetic makeup of both the tumor and the patient, healthcare providers can identify mutations or biomarkers that may influence how well a treatment will work for an individual. This approach, known as precision medicine, enables the selection of therapies that are more likely to be effective for a particular patient while minimizing the risk of unnecessary side effects from treatments that may not be beneficial.

This personalization not only enhances the likelihood of a positive treatment outcome but also helps clinicians avoid using certain drugs that may be ineffective for the patient’s specific cancer type. As a result, genetic testing contributes to more targeted and efficient treatments, improving overall patient care and outcomes in chemotherapy.