Best Practices and Research Advances in Thoracic Oncology: A Regional Series LATAM Course 3: Driver Alterations in Lung Cancer-Molecular Profiling in the Region: Opportunities and Challenges

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Claudio Martin discusses the significance of molecular profiling in thoracic oncology, highlighting opportunities and challenges in Latin America. With advancements in identifying targets and therapies for non-squamous metastatic lung cancer, molecular testing becomes crucial for improving patient survival. However, challenges such as inadequate access to tests, differing incidence rates of mutations (e.g., EGFR), and dependency on pharmaceutical funding for testing persist. While efforts continue to improve testing through collaboration with industry and government, disparities remain, hindering timely access to necessary genomic profiling and treatment. Dr. Martin emphasizes the importance of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and liquid biopsy in diagnostics and treatment decisions. The Argentine Oncology Association is working towards equitable test access, recognizing the necessity of these tools in non-small cell lung cancer management. Increased regional research and collaboration are essential for advancing cancer genomics and ensuring standardized access across diverse populations.

Asset Subtitle

Claudio Martin, MD

Keywords

molecular profiling

thoracic oncology

non-squamous metastatic lung cancer

Next-Generation Sequencing

liquid biopsy

cancer genomics