Cancer biomarkers are essential for several reasons:
- Early Detection: Biomarkers can detect cancer at an early stage when it is more treatable. For example, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations can indicate a higher risk for breast and ovarian cancers, allowing for proactive monitoring. - Personalized Medicine: Biomarkers enable the customization of treatment plans based on a patient's unique biomarker profile, leading to more effective and less toxic treatments. - Monitoring Treatment Response: Biomarkers can help monitor how well a treatment is working, allowing for adjustments to be made in real-time. - Prognosis: They provide information about the likely course of the disease, helping in decision-making for both patients and healthcare providers.
