A Physician Explains How You Can Have a Safe and Happy Vacation with the Kids

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

FEATURED EXPERT
DR NUR ELAYNI BORHAN
Consultant Emergency Physician
Sunway Medical Centre
BEFORE YOU LEAVE THE HOUSE

Make sure that you have at hand essentials such as the following:

  • Paracetamol for fever or pain
  • Oral rehydration solution for dehydration due to diarrhoea
  • Cough and cold medications
  • Inhalers if your children have asthma
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Band-aids, adhesive tapes, and gauze for wound care
  • Thermometer
  • Your child’s existing medications, if any

“I would also advise to bring some topical medication such as antiseptic cream, mentholated or medicated topical ointment – anything you’re used to, from home,” Dr Nur Elayni Borhan adds. “You know your own children, so bring the things that you know would benefit them. Try to avoid bringing things that are new to them.”

WATCH WHAT YOUR KIDS ARE EATING!

Diarrhoea and vomiting are among the most common illnesses that affect children while they are on holiday.

Dr Elayni advises parents to ensure that their children are taught to follow safe food and water precautions.

Her other tips are:

  • Frequently wash hands to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
  • If you are breastfeeding your child, continue to breastfeed during the vacation.
  • Make sure that vaccinations for the whole family are up to date, as there is generally a higher risk for most vaccine-preventable diseases when travelling.

If your child—or any other family member—develops diarrhoea, Dr Elayni recommends consuming plenty of fluids.

“Oral rehydration solution may be used to prevent dehydration, especially if the child is also vomiting,” she further adds. “If your child appears to be dehydrated and/or has a fever or bloody stools, seek medical attention immediately.”

IF YOUR CHILD HAS AN ALLERGY

Dr Elayni says, “Planning ahead is the key to making your trip safe and enjoyable.”

  • Always stay alert, take every necessary precaution, and carry all essential medications.
  • Bring a medical kit with your child’s medications, including their epinephrine pen. Do this no matter how near or short the trip is.
  • Not everyone can understand English or Bahasa Melayu, so get information about your child’s allergy translated to the native language of your destination. Written information about your child’s allergies, for example, can be very useful when ordering food for your child.
  • Take note of the allergy policies of the airline and at the hotels you will be staying at. Every airline or hotel is different, and they need advance notice to make accommodations.
  • Research restaurants or grocery stores at your destination that would carry products safe for your child.
OTHER USEFUL TIPS
If your child suffers from motion sickness:
  • Keep them hydrated.
  • Let them eat and drink in small amounts regularly instead of having heavy meals.
  • Avoid letting them read or us screen devices while traveling in a vehicle. Instead, encourage them to sleep or engage in conversations with other family members.
If your child experiences uncomfortable pressure in the ear:
  • Encourage them to swallow their saliva. Younger children can breastfeed or suck on a thumb while older children can suck on lozenges or chew gum to equalize the pressure,

General tips for a fun and safe vacation:

  • Bring along your child’s comfort toy or blankie.
  • If your child has an existing chronic condition, consult a doctor before traveling to destinations with different climates and altitudes. You may need to take special precautions, such as dressing your child appropriately for colder destinations and apply sunscreen at hotter destinations.
  • Discourage your children from swimming in non-chlorinated bodies of water (rivers, ponds, lakes, etc), as there is a risk of your child swallowing contaminated water.
  • Pack safe snacks and meals in case there are no appropriate restaurants for your child.
  • Identify important healthcare facilities at your destination. You can also seek advice on available local medical services from hotels or tour company representatives.
  • Include your child in any travel insurance policies bought for the trip, which should include medical repatriation if necessary.

Georgen Thye Explains the Differences between Various Milks in the Market

WORDS GEORGEN THYE

FEATURED EXPERT
GEORGEN THYE
Consultant Dietitian and Coach
Founder of Georgen Cooking
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube | Linkedin

Milk comes in various forms, and it’s important to know the differences, including how they’re processed in the factory, and their nutrition content. Let’s break down the variations:

UHT MILK

Ultra-high temperature (UHT) milk is heat-treated to extend shelf life.

It undergoes pasteurization at an ultra-high temperature, a process to kill harmful bacteria, and is packed in a sterile environment.

It’s convenient and doesn’t require refrigeration until opened.

However, some nutrients may be reduced during the manufacturing process.

FULL CREAM MILK

This milk contains the highest fat content, approximately 3.25–3.5% fat, giving it a rich, creamy flavour.

It also goes through pasteurization and is homogenized to ensure an even distribution of fat.

LOW FAT MILK

Low fat milk first undergoes pasteurization, similar to full cream milk.

Then, it undergoes a skimming process to remove much of the fat, reducing its overall fat content to around 1–2%.

It’s still homogenized, ensuring a consistent texture while providing essential nutrients with reduced fat.

FRESH MILK

Straight from the farm to your fridge, fresh milk is minimally processed to preserve its natural flavour and nutrients.

It typically undergoes pasteurization but minimal homogenization, keeping it close to its farm-fresh state and containing around 3.25–3.5% fat.

FLAVOURED MILK

Whether it’s chocolate or strawberry, flavoured milk adds a tasty spin to regular milk.

However, be cautious of added sugars, which can increase calorie levels.

Choose options with lower sugar content and enjoy in moderation.

Note that despite its sweetness, flavored milk still provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein.

WHICH MILK IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Your milk choice depends on your goals and taste.

Low-fat is great for reducing fat and sugar.

Fresh milk is minimally processed and ideal for those who love its natural taste.

Enjoy flavoured milk in moderation, choosing lower-sugar options.

Regardless of your pick, milk is rich in vital nutrients like calcium and protein for good health so enjoy!

15 Facts & Tips That Moms & Dads Should Know When It Comes to Dengue & Their Kids

WORDS LIM TECK CHOON

FEATURED EXPERT
DR YONG JUNINA FADZIL
Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Cardiologist
Klinik Pakar Kanak-Kanak Junina
FOR PARENTS WITH BABIES BELOW 6 MONTHS OF AGE
  1. According to Dr Yong Junina, young babies with dengue may not show specific symptoms—they may not even exhibit fever.
  2. Furthermore, fever is also a symptom of many other childhood illnesses. Thus, even when a child has fever, it can be challenging for a doctor to identify the exact cause of the fever.
  3. Also, a child’s condition may worsen quickly if left untreated.
  4. Hence, Dr Yong Junina advises parents with a child of under 6 months of age to promptly seek medical attention when their child appears unwell.
FOR PARENTS OF SLIGHTLY OLDER CHILDREN
  1. “Older children may still experience difficulties in communicating their conditions to their parents,” Dr Yong Junina shares.
  2. Generally, unwell children tend to consume less fluids, and severe dengue can cause fluid leakage from blood vessels, resulting in reduced urine output. Dehydration, regardless of the cause, can be perilous, especially in young children.
  3. Hence, bring the child to see a doctor promptly when they show such signs of being unwell.
SOME POSSIBLE SIGNS THAT A CHILD MAY HAVE DENGUE
  • Lethargy.
  • Body ache.
  • Pain behind the eyes.
  • Headaches.
  • Parents can check whether their child’s hands and feet feel cold. They can also press on the child’s fingertips to observe how quickly the fingertips regain their normal colour.
HOW DENGUE AMONG YOUNG CHILDREN IS TREATED
  1. Dr Yong Junina tells us that young children are more likely to develop severe dengue and related complications, such as dengue shock syndrome.
  2. Dengue shock syndrome is the result of dengue-causing viruses triggering a chain of reactions that cause one’s blood vessels to leak. Eventually, the person experiences sudden drop in blood pressure, internal bleeding, and even organ failure. This is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death if not treated quickly!
  3. Dr Yong points out that children with severe dengue will need to be admitted into the hospital. There, they will undergo repeated blood tests and possibly be put on drip.
  4. “Throughout all this, parents would need to stay with them, affecting their work and ability to care for the rest of the family,” she says. “Among daily wage earners, the loss of income would be significant.”
PROTECTING YOUR CHILD FROM DENGUE
  1. “There is no preventive method that is 100% effective,” says Dr Yong Junina. Hence, it is important for parents to practice vigilance.
  2. Keep the house free of potential mosquito breeding grounds by ensuring there is no stagnant water.
    • Aedes mosquitoes, the ones responsible for infecting us with dengue, breed in clean water, so make sure pails are covered and use larvicide in any places that water may collect in.
    • Remember to check aquariums and containers of aquatic pets (such as terrapins), receptacles for catching residual water from plants and dishracks, and containers of water-based plants such as money plants and hydroponics.
  3. Keep windows closed at dawn and dusk, as these moments are when the Aedes mosquitoes are more active, and sleep with long-sleeved clothing.
  4. Use mosquito repellents. There is a wide range of products available, including chemical-free products infused with lemongrass.

Ever Wondered Why Vaccines Still Need to Be Injected into Your Body? Get the Answer from a Paediatrician!

WORDS DR DATIN CLARENCE KAVETHA A/P S.S. DANIEL

FEATURED EXPERT
DR DATIN CLARENCE KAVETHA A/P S. S. DANIEL
Consultant Paediatrician, IMU Healthcare
and Lecturer, School of Medicine, International Medical University

Injections can be scary for both adults and children population in general. So why do we still do it?

WHY ARE THE MAJORITY OF VACCINES STILL GIVEN VIA INJECTIONS?

This is mainly because, by injecting directly into the muscle, the vaccines produce a good immune response and certainly provide adequate protection.

Many studies on needle-based vaccinations have demonstrated that these vaccines have good efficacy and high safety levels.

Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) have set standards for vaccine administration, and needle-based vaccination is accepted by most countries and has become a standard practice.

INJECTIONS DON’T HAVE TO HURT (MUCH)!

There are certain vaccines that can be given into the skin instead of the muscle, hence they can be less painful.

This method uses a shorter and thinner needle, so it can also be less intimidating as well to some people.

ARE THERE ANY NEEDLE-FREE ALTERNATIVES TO RECEIVING VACCINES?

There are a few alternative vaccines that do not involve needles. All said, the choice of vaccine delivery still depends on the vaccine characteristics and the targeted disease.

Some needle-free alternatives include oral vaccines in the form of liquid or tablet for diseases like polio and cholera. However, some vaccines are not stable when given orally, mainly because the digestive enzymes in our stomach make it very challenging for most vaccines to work.

Nasal vaccines are also available for certain infections such as the flu—these vaccines are sprayed into the nose.

Having said all of these, I should point out that there is still ongoing research and development to produce alternative vaccine delivery methods that would be less painful and easier to administer.

SCARED OF NEEDLES? DON’T LET YOUR FEAR KEEP YOU FROM GETTING YOUR SHOTS
  • Bring a close friend or family member along with you.
  • Tell the staff that will administer the shot that you’re afraid of needles. Most of them will understand and do their best to soothe your anxiety.
  • Don’t look at the needle going into your arm. Distract yourself by looking at something else or chatting with the staff or your companion.
  •  If your nerves are getting the better of you, take deep breaths and slowly count to 10.

A Dietitian Exposes 3 Common Misconceptions about Detox Diets & Products

WORDS GEORGEN THYE

FEATURED EXPERT
GEORGEN THYE
Consultant Dietitian and Coach
Founder of Georgen Cooking
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube | Linkedin

It’s a common belief that detox diets and products can cleanse your body of toxins, but let’s unravel the truth.

MYTH 1: DETOXING CLEARS YOUR TOXINS

Fact: Your body has its own built-in detox system. Your liver, kidneys, and digestive system work around the clock to eliminate waste and toxins.


An overview of the detox system of our body. Click on the image for a larger, clearer version.

MYTH 2: DETOX DIETS ARE EFFECTIVE

Fact: Most detox diets are restrictive and low in essential nutrients. They may lead to temporary weight loss, but it’s mostly water weight, not toxins.

MYTH 3: DETOX PRODUCTS WORK MIRACLES

Fact: Detox teas, supplements, and wraps often lack scientific evidence and can have side effects. They’re not a magic solution.

SO, HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT YOUR BODY’S NATURAL DETOX PROCESSES?

Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep. Your body has the detox game covered!

LOOKING FOR AUTHENTIC DIETARY FACTS & ADVICE?

Visit Georgen’s social media, links above, for more fun educational advice, facts, and more.

Drop him a note if you are interested in his services:

  • Corporate Wellness Programme
  • Health Talks
  • Cooking Workshop
  • Virtual Diet Consultations

Curious about Traditional Chinese Medicine? Get the Details from an Expert

WORDS DR ONG SIEW SIEW

FEATURED EXPERT
DR ONG SIEW SIEW
Clinician-in-Charge and Senior Chinese Medicine Practitioner
Chinese Medicine Centre
IMU Healthcare
YES, TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE IS LEGITIMATE  

Traditional Chinese medicine, often abbreviated as TCM, is a legitimate practice recognized the Ministry of Health Malaysia.

Indeed, under the Traditional and Complementary Medicine (T&CM) Act 2016 [Act 775], the TCM industry is going through an important transition towards greater uniformity and credibility among the practitioner community and the services they offer.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE USES DIFFERENT PRINCIPLES FROM WESTERN MEDICINE

The foundation of traditional Chinese medicine is this belief that every person has a unique body constitution pattern, signifying the intricate equilibrium of opposing elements.

These opposing elements must co-exist harmoniously for a person to be in good health.

Traditional Chinese medicine aims to restore this equilibrium and regulate the body’s dynamic energy, which can be affected by various factors such as diet, stress, chronic illnesses, and more.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE PRACTITIONERS CAN HELP WITH MANY AILMENTS

For example, they can help to relieve chronic pain, support the immune system, improve sleep quality, and much more. Some practitioners also specialize in certain areas of health such as the heart, lungs, digestion or the reproductive system.

Two patients with a similar ailment may receive different therapies because each of them presents a unique imbalance that requires rectification.

As the treatment evolves and the patient’s constitution undergoes changes, the prescription and treatment may require modification. Therefore, it is highly advisable to maintain continuity of treatment with the same practitioner, who can closely monitor your progress.

WHILE THEY ARE FUNDAMENTALLY DIFFERENT, WESTERN & TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE CAN GO HAND IN HAND

This is as long as both parties are well-informed.

It’s essential to take any oral medications from the two disciplines at least 4 hours apart to minimize the risk of interactions.

In contrast, for external treatments such as acupuncture, cupping or moxibustion, the likelihood of unwanted interactions is minimal.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE IS NOT SPIRITUAL OR RELIGIOUS 

Many people of different backgrounds seek help from TCM practitioners.

Indeed, for your first visit, it will be similar to any other medical appointment. The practitioner will take note of your medical history and perform some diagnostic techniques to check the body’s constitution.

It can be helpful to bring along medical records such as blood test results and any imagings like scans or X-rays to provide more background.

You can also list out your medications and supplements and discuss your daily routines and lifestyle.

All this information will help the practitioner to understand more about you and your needs, so that an effective treatment plan can be formulated.

In this way, a TCM practitioner assesses a patient’s condition using traditional Chinese medicine diagnostic principles and utilizes a personalized combination of treatment methods. These are all grounded in scientific and non-spiritual principles to address any imbalances in the body.

ALWAYS LOOK FOR A REGISTERED TCM PRACTITIONER

From March 2024, all licensed TCM practitioners will be registered with the T&CM Council and issued an Annual Practising Certificate (APC). This will make it easy to verify the authenticity of a registered TCM practitioner.

A Dermatologist Shares Essential Skincare Tips for People with Diabetes

WORDS DR GAN TECK SHENG

FEATURED EXPERT
DR GAN TECK SHENG
Consultant Dermatologist
Tung Shin Hospital

The stakes are high when it comes to diabetes management.

High blood sugar is not just a number; it affects various bodily components, including your skin.

For many, a skin problem serves as an early warning sign of diabetes. Those elevated glucose levels are often the culprits behind the dry, itchy skin.

But here is the lifestyle twist–many individuals living with diabetes are not aware of the vital role that proper skin care plays. It is not just about administering insulin and watching your diet; it is about a comprehensive approach to well-being that includes your skin.

GENERAL SKIN CARE
Use gentle cleanser when bathing or showering.
  • Avoid bar soaps as they strip away natural oils and disrupt skin barrier function.
  • Also avoid cleansers that contain perfumes and harsh detergents as they may cause irritation and redness to the skin. Instead, use gentle cleansers to help maintain hydration and prevent skin dryness.
Bathe or shower the right way.
  • Use lukewarm water as hot water strips away natural oils and damages the skin.
  • Keep your baths or showers short, ideally no longer than 10 minutes.
Dry your skin carefully.
  • After a bath or shower, dry your skin with gentle pats.
  • Remember to dry the skin between your toes, armpits and other skin folds. Intertrigo—rashes and inflammation caused by skin-to-skin friction—occurs more easily in warm moist environments.
Apply moisturizer every day.
  • Keep your skin moisturized and prevent cracks that lead to infection.
  • Pick a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizing cream or ointment.
  • Apply after bathing or when your skin is dry or itchy.
FOOT CARE
Check your feet daily.
  • First, dry your feet carefully.
  • Make sure to check between your toes and your feet for rashes, cuts, sores, or any other changes to the skin.
  • Use a mirror if you cannot see your soles.
Wear shoes that fit well.
  • Always wear shoes and socks to avoid injury.
  • Wear closed, well-fitting shoes with cushioned sole.
  • Check if there is any object or pebble inside your shoes before putting them on.
Treat dry, cracked heels.
  • Apply urea cream on dry, cracked hills every day before getting into bed. This will help in preventing the development of non-healing sores and serious skin infections.
Take care of your toenails.
  • Keep your toenails short and trim them straight across.
  • Gently smooth any sharp edges with a nail file.
  • Do not let the sides of your toenails grow into the skin.
See a doctor for treatment of corns and calluses on your feet.
  • Do not remove corns or calluses with sharp objects. Any skin injury on the feet may increase the risk of ulcers and infection, especially patients with diabetic neuropathy.
  • Be cautious when using over-the-counter products, as these products may irritate your skin.
Treat all wounds immediately.
  • Wash wounds with antiseptic and water.
  • Only apply antibiotic cream if recommended by your doctor.
  • Cover the wound with an adhesive bandage.
  • Perform daily dressing to help your skin heal.
SEE A DOCTOR IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING
  • Reddish and swollen skin.
  • Pain or tenderness.
  • Honey-coloured crusts.
  • Change in the colour and temperature of your feet.
  • Wound that is weeping or leaking pus.
  • Thickened or discoloured nails.

What Happens When Your Prostate Gland Becomes Enlarged? Find Out from A Consultant Urologist

WORDS DR GOH ENG HONG

FEATURED EXPERT
DR GOH ENG HONG
Consultant Urologist
Prince Court Medical Centre
BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA (COMMONLY ABBREVIATED AS BPH) IS A NON-CANCEROUS ENLARGEMENT OF THE PROSTATE GLAND COMMONLY OBSERVED IN OLDER MEN
An overview of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Click on the image for a larger, clearer version.

This condition has become more common due to several factors including:

  • Changes in men’s attitude towards their health and well-being. These changes in attitude led to them seeking medical advice more proactively.
  • Advancements in healthcare have led to a longer lifespan seen among men. Because of this, there is an increase in the number of elderly individuals and consequently has a rise in the incidence of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

By the age of 50, about 50% of men experience prostate enlargement, and this figure rises to about 80% by the age of 80.

This highlights a significant correlation between age and the prevalence of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA
Seek medical attention when you experience any of these symptoms over a long period of time or when they interfere with your daily routines.
  • Frequent trips to the restroom
  • A need to wake up from sleep to urinate (nocturia)
  • Weak urine flow
  • Painful urination
  • Blood in the urine
  • A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
  • Symptoms of more advanced stages of benign prostatic hyperplasia can include high fever and/or an inability to urinate.
SYMPTOMS OF BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA CAN WORSEN OVER TIME

This is especially true as individuals age and potentially encounter other health problems that can worsen their prostate issues, such as diabetes and stroke.

However, if one’s underlying health issues are well-managed and infections are treated effectively, there is potential for improvement in the prostate condition.

AVAILABLE TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

Treatment involves a comprehensive approach for managing any underlying conditions and considering the extent of the enlargement and its impact on the patient.

If the prostate enlargement is minimal, usually we will monitor for the time being for any further enlargement.

However, if symptoms cause significant discomfort, the doctor will prescribe the appropriate medications to manage these symptoms.

If medications are not effective, we can consider surgery. There are several surgical options to consider, depending on individual circumstances and preferences.

LIFESTYLE & SELF-CARE MEASURES TO MANAGE THE SYMPTOMS OF BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA
  • Adopt a lifestyle regimen that includes reducing the intake of irritants like caffeinated beverages—these irritants can increase the urge to urinate.
  • Reduce consumption of liquids and foods high in water content during the evenings, to help avoid nighttime bathroom visits.
  • Maintain proper hygiene to prevent infections, especially since prostate enlargement increases one’s risk of infection.
TIPS TO REDUCE ONE’S RISK OF BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is associated with ageing. Good habits as above could prevent worsening of the condition.

Additionally, one should seek regular medical check-ups, such as blood and urine tests, to monitor kidney function and identify potential infections early.

A Significant Milestone in Improving the Access of Malaysians to Comprehensive Genomic Profiling

Recently, Roche Pharmaceuticals and Roche Diagnostics cemented a partnership with Premier Integrated Labs with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU). This MOU is effective from November 2023.

The objectives of this partnership include improving patient access to comprehensive genomic profiling or CGP as well as promoting greater awareness and understanding of CGP among Malaysians.

MS HENG CHAI YIN
General Manager
Roche Diagnostics (M) Sdn Bhd

“While awareness and understanding are crucial, our ultimate goal is to ensure that CGP is accessible to all patients in Malaysia. It is about providing every patient with the best possible chance for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan,” says Ms Heng Chai Yin, the General Manager of Roche Diagnostics Sdn Bhd.

WHAT IS COMPREHENSIVE GENOMIC PROFILING (CGP)?

With a single test, comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) can analyse a broad panel of genes that is known to drive cancer growth. This type of testing produces comprehensive patient reports with broad and deep assessments of the possible underlying cancer drivers.1

HOW CGP PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN PRECISION MEDICINE

Precision medicine involves the use of personalized treatments for an individual with regards to a disease.2

Different people can respond differently to the same medication for the same disease, and there are many possible factors that are responsible for these differences.

Hence, a big part of precision medicine involves the identification of these differences through investigative methods such as in the image below.

Click on the image for a larger, clearer version. CGP falls under omics. Hence, it is one of the important procedures that provide healthcare professionals with the necessary data to design the best personalized treatments for their patients.
HOW CGP CAN IMPROVE THE PRECISION OF CANCER TREATMENT IN MALAYSIA
MS DEEPTI SARAF
General Manager
Roche (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd

According to Ms Deepti Saraf, CGP holds the key to unlocking the full potential of personalized medicine. It allows us to explore the genetic makeup of individuals, thereby enabling more precise and tailored treatment approaches.

Let’s look at lung cancer as an example.

How CGP could improve treatment for lung cancer and benefit both the patient and the oncologist. Click the image for a larger, clearer version.
CGP IS DIFFERENT FROM CONVENTIONAL GENOMIC TESTS

Ms Deepti Saraf points out that, unlike those genomic tests in the market that let you know about your genes and ancestry, CGP is more of a diagnostic tool that empowers doctors, especially oncologists, to create the most optimal personalized treatments for their patients based on available data.

EN HAREEFF MUHAMMED
Chief Executive Officer
Premier Integrated Labs

En Hareeff Muhammed brings up that, with the wealth of genomic data obtained through the use of CGP, databases can be created to analyse which treatments would work best for different groups of patients.

This goes back to Ms Deepti Saraf’s statement that CGP allows healthcare professionals to design the best personalized treatments for their patients. They can do this by using the information found in the database to help shape their decisions.

“It’s not just useful for the patients and saves time,” En Hareeff elaborates. “It also supports doctors in making better decisions.”

This is an educational article brought to you by

References:

  1. Foundation Medicine. (n.d.). Why comprehensive genomic profiling? https://www.foundationmedicine.com/resource/why-comprehensive-genomic-profiling
  2. König, I. R., Fuchs, O., Hansen, G., von Mutius, E., & Kopp, M. V. (2017). What is precision
    medicine?. The European respiratory journal, 50(4), 1700391. https://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.00391-2017
  3. Omics-based clinical discovery: Science, technology, and applications. (2012, March 23). In C.M. Micheel, S.J. Nass, & G.S. Omenn (Eds), Evolution of translational omics: lessons learned and the path forward (p. 33). National Academies Press (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK202165/
  4. Tan, J., Hu, C., Deng, P., Wan, R., Cao, L., Li, M., Yang, H., Gu, Q., An, J., & Jiang, J. (2021). The predictive values of advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients harboring uncommon EGFR mutations-the mutation patterns, use of different generations of EGFR-TKIs, and concurrent genetic alterations. Frontiers in oncology, 11, 646577. https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2021.646577
  5. American Lung Association. (2022, November 17). EGFR and lung cancer. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lungcancer/symptoms-diagnosis/biomarker-testing/egfr