NHS Trial: New Genetic Test Improves Cancer Treatment for 7% of Children in England

Jul 2, 2024, 01:01 PM

A new NHS trial reported in Nature Medicine has shown that precision-guided treatment informed by comprehensive molecular profiling significantly improves outcomes for children with high-risk cancers. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) has been found to improve clinical care for children with cancer in England by identifying every single mutation in tumors, enabling doctors to tailor individual patient care. The trial, led by Professor Sam Behjati from Cambridge University, revealed that WGS provides all the benefits of standard tests while improving clinical care for 7% of children. This cutting-edge genetic test could provide faster treatment for thousands of children by replacing hundreds of other tests.