Next-Generation Sequencing: Overview
Next-generation sequencing (NGS), commonly referred to as molecular testing, is being used more frequently in the cancer space to help make better treatment plans for patients. We consulted experts in the field to break down what next-generation sequencing (NGS) is, how it can guide treatment, and who should consider getting it.
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- Next-generation sequencing (NGS), also commonly referred to as molecular testing, can help doctors decide which treatment option is best for a patient.
- These tests check to see if there are any changes in your DNA, RNA, or proteins that may make one cancer treatment a better option than another.
- Experts recommend patients ask their doctors about NGS.
What is Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)?
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS), also commonly referred to as molecular testing, can help doctors decide which treatment option is best for a patient.
- These tests check to see if there are any changes in your DNA, RNA, or proteins that may make one cancer treatment a better option than another.
- Experts recommend patients ask their doctors about NGS.
NGS Can Help Pick the Best Treatment Path
Because each cancer is unique, your doctor may suggest using next-generation sequencing (NGS) to better understand your disease and learn how to best tailor treatment to you.
When a doctor understands more specifics about your disease, they may be able to use precision medicine that targets specific aspects of your disease.
Precision medicine, or targeted therapy, is changing the game when it comes to cancer treatment.
To better predict which treatments may work best, doctors may test for mutations and/or alternations in your genes that may cause cancer to develop and grow in specific ways. In certain situations, doctors may also test to see if any specific hormones or proteins are driving a cancer’s growth.
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) can be helpful for many common cancers, such as lung, breast, colon, prostate, and more.
