Revolutionizing GI Cancer Treatment: How Personalized Medicine, Technology, and Lifestyle Insights Are Changing Lives

Personalized medicine is changing how we treat gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Thanks to next-generation sequencing, doctors can offer targeted therapies that improve treatment and patient care, says Dr. Tiago Biachi, a colorectal oncologist at Moffitt Cancer Center.

Lifestyle choices, like obesity and physical inactivity, play a big role in preventing GI cancers. Dr. Biachi also highlights how important it is for healthcare teams to work together in treating these cancers.

This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity.

Transcript

How has the role of personalized medicine evolved in treating GI cancers?

Precision oncology has truly changed the game for GI cancer treatment. Not long ago, we often treated all patients the same way. Now, advancements in sequencing mean we can personalize therapies for patients. This change improves not just treatment but also diagnosis and follow-up after surgery.

I recently spoke about circulating tumor DNA, a new technology we can now use in clinics. We can utilize this technology for various purposes, such as screening for colorectal cancer, checking for cancer remnants after surgery, or identifying specific mutations to guide treatment. The goal is to provide the right care for each patient at the right moment.

What role do lifestyle and diet play in the prevention and management of GI diseases?

Lifestyle is actually very important when it comes to GI cancers. Research shows that obesity and lack of exercise are risk factors, especially for colorectal cancer. Data indicate that patients who are overweight are at a greater risk of their cancer returning compared to those with a normal weight.

For liver cancer, one major cause today is fatty liver disease, which is tied to lifestyle choices. There’s a significant opportunity for improvement in preventing these cancers, especially considering the obesity epidemic we’re facing now.

How do you see the role of interdisciplinary teams evolving in the treatment and management of GI conditions?

One reason I’m passionate about GI cancers is the teamwork involved in this field. Tumor boards, where healthcare professionals come together to discuss patient care, are vital for effective treatment. We sit down with surgeons and radiologists to decide on the best plans for our patients.

No single provider can handle all aspects of care alone. Patients today have numerous questions about diet, exercise, and pain management. Collaboration is essential to address not just their medical needs but also their overall well-being.