Francisco J. Esteva, Chief of the Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology at Lenox Hill Hospital and a Professor of Medicine at the Zucker School of Medicine, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Genetic testing and tumor genetic profiling serve different but complementary roles in cancer care.
Genetic testing in healthy individuals looks for inherited mutations – like BRCA1 or BRCA2 – that increase cancer risk. This information can guide preventive steps, including enhanced screening or risk-reducing surgery.
In contrast, tumor genetic profiling examines mutations within the cancer itself, identifying molecular targets for treatment. For instance, if a person with a BRCA mutation develops breast cancer, that same mutation can inform the use of therapies such as PARP inhibitors.
Understanding both germline and somatic mutations allows for truly personalized care – improving outcomes and empowering patients with knowledge at every stage.”
Proceed to the video attached to the post.