Revolutionizing Wellness: The Power of Technology and Lifestyle Choices

Personalized healthcare is making a significant impact in managing gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, with developments in next-generation sequencing facilitating more targeted treatments and improving both care and patient management, stated Tiago Biachi, MD, PhD, a specialist in colorectal oncology and GI cancers at Moffitt Cancer Center.

He further highlighted the significance of lifestyle elements, such as obesity and insufficient physical activity, in the prevention and recurrence of GI cancers and emphasized the essential function of interdisciplinary teams in the management of GI diseases.

This transcript has been minimally revised for clarity.

Transcript

In what ways has the role of personalized medicine changed in the treatment of GI cancers?

In fact, precision oncology has, I would assert, transformed the approach to patients suffering from GI cancer. Not long ago, we applied the same treatment protocols to many patients, but now, particularly due to advancements in next-generation sequencing, we can provide patients with more tailored therapies—and this applies not just to the treatment itself, but also to the diagnostic approach and monitoring of these patients after surgery.

I recently delivered a presentation at a conference on circulating tumor DNA, a cutting-edge technology. Now, we can utilize this in clinical settings, and we explored various scenarios for applying this technology, including screening for colorectal cancer, detecting minimal residual disease post-surgery, or identifying specific tumor mutations to tailor treatment for the patient. We are swiftly advancing in this area to ensure the proper treatment is given to the right patient at the right time, which is essential.

In your view, what influence do lifestyle and dietary habits have on the prevention and management of GI diseases, and how can healthcare professionals enhance patient education in this area?

Lifestyle plays a critical role in GI cancers, likely more so than in any other type of solid tumor. For instance, we know that obesity and physical inactivity are recognized risk factors for colorectal cancer in many cases. This is well-documented. We have studies indicating that colorectal cancer patients, when tracked, reveal that those who are overweight or obese have a greater risk of recurrence compared to those with a normal weight.

Furthermore, with liver cancer, one of the primary current causes is fatty liver, which is undoubtedly linked to lifestyle choices. Thus, there is significant potential for improvement, particularly in prevention, given the pandemic nature of obesity. However, it’s also relevant even for patients who have been previously treated, as this remains crucial.

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

This is likely why I developed a passion for GI cancers in the first place. It is a specialty where teamwork is paramount. For example, tumor boards are vital for managing these patients, as this is when we can convene and collaborate with surgeons, interventional radiologists, and others involved in the patient’s care to determine the best treatment options.

Honestly, the level of care these patients require is too extensive for a single provider. Patients today have greater access to information; hence, they come with many inquiries regarding diet, exercise options, and pain management. It’s crucial for us to function as a team because no single provider can comprehensively address every aspect related not only to the cancer itself but also to the patient’s overall well-being. Thus, collaboration is essential.