Dr Diaz on the Evolution of Precision Medicine in Cervical Cancer

John Paul Diaz, MD, chief, Gynecologic Oncology; director, Robotic Surgery; director, Center of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, Baptist Health; director, Ambulatory Surgery Center, Baptist Health Cancer Care | Plantation; gynecologist oncologist, lead physician for Clinical Trials in Gynecologic Oncology, Miami Cancer Institute, discusses the evolving use of precision medicine approaches in cervical cancer management, as highlighted in his presentation at the Second Annual Miami Cancer Institute Precision Oncology Symposium.

The landscape of cervical cancer treatment has undergone significant changes in recent years, driven by advancements in precision medicine and biomarker-driven approaches, Diaz begins. Previously, standard chemotherapies were administered to all patients regardless of individual profile. Now, the approach to treatment is increasingly centered on identifying specific biomarkers that can predict treatment responses and tailor therapeutic approaches accordingly, Diaz states.

One key biomarker in this regard is PD-L1, assessed through a patient's combined positive score, Diaz expands. A patient's PD-L1 status can inform whether they are candidates for immunotherapy-based treatment. Additionally, HER2 status is now incorporated into treatment considerations, with the ongoing exploration of other emerging biomarkers that promise to further refine therapy selection for improved outcomes and reduced toxicities, he notes.

Molecular profiling has emerged as a cornerstone of precision medicine in gynecologic cancers, facilitating the customization of treatment regimens based on individual genetic signatures, Diaz continues. This personalized approach not only enhances treatment efficacy but also mitigates treatment-related toxicities by matching patients with therapies most likely to benefit them, he says.

Despite these advancements in treatment, the primary emphasis in cervical cancer care remains on disease prevention, Diaz notes. Through the use of proactive screening programs incorporating techniques like pap smears, HPV testing, and HPV vaccination, there is an opportunity to eradicate cervical cancer altogether. By addressing risk factors and promoting preventive measures, theoverarching goal is to eliminate the need for extensive biomarker testing in the future by preventing the disease from occurring in the first place, he concludes.