Myassa Kjaerem
Senior Global Medical Advisor, MD. PhD.
With my background in oncology research, I recognize the complexity of cancer and the profound impact the disease has on patients and their loved ones.
United by Unique: Recognizing World Cancer Day
Every cancer journey is different. This year’s World Cancer Day theme, "United by Unique," reminds us that every patient deserves access to cancer treatments tailored to their individual needs and health background historic. As research and innovation continue to transform cancer care, one truth remains: personalized care is key to improving treatment outcomes. Although treatment options are many, patient will each have their own journey and unique path they will have to follow when diagnosed with cancer.
Cancer awareness
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. While treatments continue to evolve, awareness about risk factors, symptoms, and early detection remains crucial in how quick each will engage in a treatment protocol
Why Personalized Cancer Treatment Matters
Cancer is not a one-size-fits-all disease. Each diagnosis is unique, and so should be the treatment and the patient’s follow-up. Precision medicine allows healthcare professionals to tailor therapies based on a patient’s genetic profile, lifestyle, and medical history. This shift is already slowly transforming cancer care—leading to more effective treatments, fewer side effects, and better survival rates (National Comprehensive Cancer Network, 2024).
But personalized care goes beyond medical treatments. A patient-centered approach is essential—one that considers not just the disease, but also the psychological, emotional, and social challenges faced by individuals.
Shared decision-making between patients and healthcare providers ensures that treatments align with therapeutic goals and individual needs.
Clear communication about options reduces uncertainty, fosters trust and ensure that patients feel confident to stay on their treatment.
Innovations in Cancer Treatment
Recent breakthroughs are reshaping how we fight cancer:
Immunotherapy: Trigger patient’s immune system to target cancer cells, have shown particularly good outcome for patients with lung cancer, melanoma, and blood cancers (Cancer Research UK, 2023).
Targeted Therapies: Uses molecular-level precision to strike cancerous cells via cell receptors while minimizing damage to surrounding cells.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Improves recovery times and reduces complications, enhancing patient outcomes.
Taking Action
Beyond medical treatments, emotional and psychological support plays a critical role in cancer care. Cancer is not just a physical battle—it is a mental and emotional journey that deeply impacts both patients and their families. Compassionate communication helps alleviate fear and strengthen trust between patients and healthcare providers.
Healthcare teams can also further enhance patient support by encouraging open dialogue where patients are able to ask questions and ensuring transparency about treatment. A 2022 survey published in Cancer Management and Research found that over 40% of cancer patients felt uncertain about aspects of their treatment, emphasizing the need for clearer communication and patient empowerment when it comes to their journey against cancer.