Customized chemotherapy is just around the corner. A recent study shows that genomic tests, which analyze a cancer's molecular traits, are 80% accurate in predicting which drugs will be most effective in destroying tumors from breast, lung and ovarian cancers. Trials are also under way for prostate cancer. The tests may be widely available for use within the next few years.
Advantages: In many cases, physicians won't have to try out drugs one by one to see what works. Treatment should progress faster—and patients will be exposed to fewer toxic drugs.
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